The Safe Quality Food Institute (SQFI) has officially released SQF Edition 10, marking a significant advancement in global food safety and quality standards.
The updated code introduces enhanced requirements designed to strengthen audit credibility, improve risk management and reinforce core food safety controls across the supply chain. Audits against SQF Edition 10 are anticipated to commence from January 1, 2027, providing organizations with a defined window to prepare for the transition.
SQF Edition 10 represents a shift in focus from compliance based systems to performance driven outcomes, with greater emphasis on demonstrable processes and measurable results.
“SQF Edition 10 represents a significant evolution in how food safety systems are assessed,” Jason Zhou, Food Technical Manager at SGS in Australia, said. “The shift toward measurable food safety culture and structured change management reflects the industry’s growing focus on proactive risk management rather than reactive compliance.”
Key enhancements in SQF Edition 10
The updated edition introduces several important changes that will directly impact certified sites and those working toward certification:
- Food safety culture
Elevated to a measurable requirement, organizations must implement structured and documented plans that demonstrate leadership commitment and workforce engagement
- Change management
A new mandatory requirement introducing formal processes to assess and manage risks associated with operational changes, including equipment, processes, products and suppliers
- Environmental monitoring
A shift to mandatory, risk-based environmental monitoring programs to ensure more targeted and effective contamination control
- Supplier assurance
Expanded supplier audit and approval requirements to strengthen transparency and supply chain risk management
- Revised scoring model
Updates to audit scoring that place greater weight on systemic controls and their effectiveness
- Digital code experience
Introduction of an interactive “Code Selector” tool to simplify navigation and improve accessibility of the standard
Taken together, these changes signal a meaningful shift in how food safety systems will be assessed and evidenced. Organizations should begin reviewing their current systems now to identify gaps ahead of the 2027 transition.
Jason Zhou added: “Early preparation is key. Organizations that act now will be better positioned to identify gaps, strengthen their systems and approach certification with confidence.”
How we help you prepare
We work with food businesses at every stage of the SQF certification process. As Edition 10 comes into effect, we can help your team understand the changes, assess your current systems and prepare for audit. We provide:
- SQF certification and transition audits
Expert auditing services to support a seamless transition to SQF Edition 10 certification. With the increased focus on food safety culture, change management and risk-based controls, organizations will need to strengthen both systems and team capability.
- SQF Edition 10 Conversion courses
Practical, industry-focused training for SQF practitioners and food safety teams. Courses cover the updated code, key requirements, including change management and food safety culture and how to assess and strengthen your current programs.
“One of the biggest challenges is translating new requirements into practical application,” added Jason Zhou. “Targeted training ensures teams not only understand the SQF Code but can implement it effectively in their day-to-day operations.”
- SQF Edition 10 Awareness Roadshow
To help organizations prepare for the changes introduced in SQF Edition 10, we are offering an interactive SQF Edition 10 Awareness Roadshow with Damien Alexander, Australia & Asia Pacific Representative from SQFI. This workshop is designed for SQF practitioners, quality managers and operations leaders, providing practical guidance on implementing measurable food safety culture, change management, risk-based environmental monitoring and supplier audit requirements.
To learn more about preparing for SQF Edition 10 or to discuss your organization’s readiness, contact us today.
Theo Vouthas
Business Development Manager
t: +61497399386
About SGS
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of over 100,000 dedicated professionals. With more than 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.
Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and a portfolio of trusted specialized brands, including Applied Technical Services, Brightsight, Bluesign and Nutrasource.
SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH1256740924, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN SW).
