IFA Plant Propagation Material (PPM)

GLOBALG.A.P. IFA Certification for Plant Propagation Material (PPM)

The GLOBALG.A.P. IFA (Integrated Farm Assurance) certification for Plant Propagation Material (PPM) is an internationally recognized standard aimed at ensuring quality and safety in the production process of plant propagation material, such as seeds, cuttings, and saplings.

This standard helps farms achieve high standards of sustainability and safety while complying with market and regulatory requirements.

What is the IFA PPM Standard?

The IFA standard for plant propagation material is available to a wide range of producers and nurseries worldwide, including seed and young plant producers. The standard can be applied to various production systems, from open-field farms to greenhouses. It offers certification options for individual producers (single and multi-site producers) as well as for producer groups, including small-scale farmers.

Why Do You Need GLOBALG.A.P. IFA PPM Certification?

Achieving this certification provides several benefits:

Compliance: Ensures adherence to international standards for the safety and quality of propagation material.
Improved Practices: Enhances cultivation practices to minimize risks and maximize production efficiency.
Customer Trust: Strengthens customer and partner confidence in certified businesses.
Market Access: Provides entry to markets that require certified products.

Benefits of GLOBALG.A.P. IFA PPM Certification

Safety and Quality: Ensures that propagation material is free from contamination and meets quality specifications.
Trust and Transparency: Certification boosts consumer and partner trust, facilitating smoother cooperation and transactions.
Operational Efficiency: Adhering to the standard’s requirements improves production management and reduces environmental and operational risks.
Differentiation and Competitiveness: Certified businesses stand out in the market, gaining a competitive edge.

GLOBALG.A.P. IFA PPM Certification Process

First Year

Initial Review: Assessment of the producer’s application, acceptance, and registration in the GLOBALG.A.P. database.
Audit Planning: Scheduling audit dates.
Audit: On-site audit of facilities, staff, quality system, records, and procedures in accordance with the standard’s requirements. For producer groups, the quality system, the square root of producers per crop type (annual, covered, and perennial), and the square root of packing facilities are inspected.
File Review and Certification Decision: Technical review of the audit report and a decision on certification.
Certificate Issuance: The certificate is valid for one year, with a possible 4-month extension under certain conditions.
Surveillance Audit: For group certification, 50% of the square root of producers per crop type (annual, covered, and perennial) is inspected to maintain certification.

Subsequent Years

Initial Review: Assessment of the producer’s application, acceptance, and registration in the GLOBALG.A.P. database.
Audit Planning: Scheduling audit dates.
Audit: On-site audit of facilities, staff, quality system, records, and procedures according to the standard’s requirements. For producer groups, the quality system, the square root of producers per crop type minus the number of producers inspected in the previous year’s surveillance (if no non-conformities were found), and the square root of packing facilities are inspected.
File Review and Certification Decision: Technical review of the audit report and a decision on certification.
Certificate Issuance: The certificate is valid for one year, with a possible 4-month extension under certain conditions.

Target Audience and Industry Needs

The GLOBALG.A.P. IFA PPM certification is aimed at:

Producers of plant propagation material.
Nurseries and organizations are involved in the cultivation and distribution of seeds and plants.
Businesses seeking to differentiate themselves and offer high-quality products in international markets.

Frequently Asked Questions about GLOBALG.A.P. IFA PPM Certification

What does the GLOBALG.A.P. IFA Plant Propagation Material certification cover?

The certification covers all procedures related to the production, cultivation, and management of plant propagation material, ensuring high standards of quality and safety are met.

What is the duration of the certification?

The certificate is valid for three years, provided that annual surveillance and re-evaluation are conducted.

Who can obtain the certification?

Producers of plant propagation material, nurseries, and businesses involved in the distribution and cultivation of plants can apply for the certification.

What are the main benefits of the certification for my business?

Benefits include enhanced market credibility, improved production practices, access to international markets, and increased customer trust.

What is the process to start the certification procedure?

The process begins with information collection and a business assessment, followed by an inspection by a specialized certification body.

Is documentation required for certification?

Yes, documentation is required, including cultivation processes, quality control measures, hygiene protocols, and other necessary documents for the inspection.

How can I prepare for the inspection?

The best preparation includes reviewing and implementing the procedures required by the standard, as well as conducting internal audits before the external inspection.

How does certification impact the sustainability of my business?

Certification aids in improving sustainability through efficient cultivation and management practices, reducing environmental risks, and enhancing resource use.

Q-CERT is an accredited certification body by ESYD for GLOBALG.A.P. standards and offers comprehensive certification services throughout Greece and internationally.

For more information or any questions, please contact our certification body Q-CERT or visit the official website of GLOBALG.A.P.

Audit Information & Expectations	Application Form
F-2711	F-2712.OP1, F-2713.OP2