The GLOBALGAP Integrated Farm Assurance (IFA) certification for Crops for Processing (CfP) is an international standard for responsible agricultural practices applied at all stages of production. It aims to ensure the quality and safety of crops intended for further processing while promoting sustainability and transparency throughout the supply chain.
With requirements encompassing natural resource management, worker safety, plant protection, and biodiversity conservation, the standard enables producers to measure their progress, demonstrate their commitment to sustainable practices, and improve the overall efficiency of their crops.
The CfP can be applied to both covered and open-field production and offers certification options for individual producers (single and multi-site) and producer groups, including smallholders.
What is GLOBALG.A.P. IFA for Crops for Processing (CfP)?
The Crops for Processing (CfP) is a non-accredited on-farm standard for producers of combinable fruit and vegetable crops. It is designed for those who supply products exclusively for further processing in the supply chain – from freezing, juicing, baking, milling, pre-cooking, and more to feed ingredients.
The CfP requires processors to implement the necessary “kill steps” to mitigate food safety risks, and all processors must have certification recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). These include standards such as BRCGS, International Featured Standards (IFS), and Food Safety System Certification (FSSC).
The standard considers unique on-farm risks from the production of crops for processing and incorporates measures taken by processors into agreed checkpoints, reducing duplication of production steps. Standard requirements include:
The standard is available for producers worldwide and covers a wide range of production systems, from small-scale farmers to large operations.
Why Do You Need GLOBALG.A.P. IFA CfP Certification?
The GLOBALGAP IFA certification for Crops for Processing offers producers the ability to:
Benefits of GLOBALG.A.P. IFA CfP Certification
GLOBALG.A.P. IFA CfP Certification Process
Certification Process Steps:
First Year
- Initial Review: Assessment of the producer’s application, acceptance, and registration in the GLOBALG.A.P. database.
- Audit Scheduling: Setting audit dates.
- Audit: On-site audit of facilities, personnel, quality system, records, and procedures according to the standard requirements. For producer groups, the quality system is checked, as well as the square root of the number of producers per crop type (annual, covered, and perennial) and the square root of packing houses.
- Review and Certification Decision: Technical review of the audit file and certification decision.
- Certificate Issuance: The certificate is valid for one year, with the possibility of a four-month extension under certain conditions.
- Surveillance Audit: For group certification, maintaining the certificate requires inspecting 50% of the square root of the number of producers per crop type (annual, covered, and perennial).
Subsequent Years
- Initial Review: Assessment of the producer’s application, acceptance, and registration in the GLOBALG.A.P. database.
- Audit Scheduling: Setting audit dates.
- Audit: On-site audit of facilities, personnel, quality system, records, and procedures according to the standard requirements. For producer groups, the quality system is checked, and the square root of producers per crop type (annual, covered, and perennial) minus the number of producers inspected in the previous year’s surveillance audit (reduction only if no non-conformities were found), along with the square root of packing houses.
- Review and Certification Decision: Technical review of the audit file and certification decision.
- Certificate Issuance: The certificate is valid for one year, with the possibility of a four-month extension under certain conditions.
Target Audience and Industry Needs
The GLOBALG.A.P. IFA certification for Crops for Processing (CfP) is aimed at:
FAQs on GLOBALG.A.P. IFA CfP Certification
What does GLOBALG.A.P. IFA for Crops for Processing cover?
It covers all production stages from planting and harvesting to processing and distribution, ensuring good agricultural practices, safety, and hygiene.
How can certification benefit my business?
Certification increases customer trust, opens access to new markets, and improves internal quality assurance processes.
What are the key requirements for certification?
Documented quality management practices, implementation of safety measures, risk management, and compliance with environmental protection standards are essential.
How long does the certification process take?
The process typically takes a few weeks to months, depending on the size and complexity of the business.
How long is the certificate valid?
The certificate is valid for one year, with mandatory annual surveillance audits.
Q-CERT , an approved certification body by GLOBALG.A.P., provides comprehensive certification services throughout Greece and internationally.
For more information or any inquiries, please contact Q-CERT or visit the official GLOBALG.A.P. website.