The suspension of IFS as well as this week’s upholding of the suspension are unfounded and arbitrary.
We provided GFSI with all the necessary information on the case in Italy, underwent an audit with the GFSI benchmark leader on 3 March 2023 and always fulfilled the GFSI benchmarking requirements. We therefore welcome today’s decision of the GFSI Steering Committee to reinstate IFS as a GFSI-recognised CPO.
Nevertheless, IFS has considered the suspension of the benchmark by GFSI as unfounded and arbitrary. It has unsettled many IFS-certified companies and has not contributed to food safety. We have always worked to ensure that their customers continue to recognise IFS Certificates and are grateful for the trust placed in us by our global network.
In the interest of all CPOs, certification bodies, certified companies and other stakeholders, we would like to see GFSI revise its governance rules to ensure that basic democratic principles are respected, procedures are transparent and fair, and rules are adhered to by all participants in the future. We all want to work for the cause of food safety, taking into account the different needs and approaches of all stakeholders.
IFS develops globally recognised product quality and safety standards and development programs with the expertise of retailers, manufacturers, certification bodies and other experts. With our help, companies increase the trustworthiness of their products and brands through a practised product and food safety culture.
Discover the latest developments within IFS standards and programs and explore key topics in the food and non-food sectors. Expert insights, inspiring discussions, and networking with industry stakeholders await you in Istanbul.
Explore current food safety topics at this 10th edition in São Paulo, organised with Food Safety Brazil. Gain expert insights, discover practical cases, and exchange ideas with industry stakeholders.
Connect with IFS at the OFPA Annual Food Safety Conference in Brampton. Meet Pius Gasser, IFS Representative North America, and exchange insights with industry professionals on food safety, quality assurance, certification, and supply chain transparency.
Save the date for the IFS Forum Lisbon 2026, dedicated to IFS Standards and current challenges in the agri-food sector. Knowledge sharing, networking, and discussions on trends shaping food safety, quality, and sustainability await you in Lisbon.
The IFS Integrity Program ensures that our standards are properly implemented.
This is guaranteed by:
Integrity on-site checks,
Integrity witness audits,
and CB office audits.
In case of complaints, it is possible to reach IFS IP via the complaint-form or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
With the accreditation of the certification bodies working with us and the IFS Standards, we ensure that our work is based on uniform international norms and thus on objectively verifiable quality standards. For us, accreditation means security and trust in our products.
Making processes, structures, and business models more sustainable is a constant challenge for many companies. To help especially small and medium-sized companies integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, IFS offers the ESG Compliance Check. With this tool, we support you on your way to a greener and more socially responsible future.
Ensure product integrity with IFS. We help you better understand and control risks relating to product integrity and food fraud. With our IFS PIA Assessment, you show your customer that you deliver products to specifications and manage your integrity risks properly.
Receive information on IFS Standards and Programs, helpful IFS Tools and other services, upcoming events and latest developments with the IFS Newsletter, delivered straight to your inbox.
