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PACsecure 3 doctrine
Updated IFS PACsecure 3 Doctrine
New IFS Food 8 Doctrine
New IFS Food 8 Doctrine
HPC 3 Doctrine & Product Example Chart
New IFS HPC 3 Doctrine and HPC Product Example Chart
Logistics 3 Doctrine and Multi-site Guideline
New doctrines for IFS Logistics 3 and IFS Broker 3.2
Tackle ESG-related supply chain risks with the IFS ESG Compliance Check
Tackle ESG-related supply chain risks with the IFS ESG Compliance Check
Introducing IFS SCPC
Introducing IFS Supply Chain Processes Check
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We have recently launched our completely redesigned website. Today, we are happy to share that it is now available in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish. The new website will automatically appear in the language of the respective country you are in.

Following up on our news from 28 March, we would like to take this opportunity to answer some frequently asked questions about the new website.

How can I find a specific document in my language?

The easiest way to find a document is to use the document hub on the homepage. It is our central and free library from which you can download all publicly available IFS Documents relating to our current standards, programs, checks, and other relevant topics.

The best way to search is to use the dropdown menus in the search boxes. For example, to find the IFS Food Standard in Polish, choose Food from the standard menu, Standard as document type and Polish as the language.

Learn more about it in the IFS Document Hub Fact Sheet.

Can I search for documents on the standard and program pages?

We will integrate the document hub on the standard and program pages to make searching relevant documents more efficient.  The default settings will be set to the corresponding language and standard/program on the French, German, Italian and Spanish pages. On the English pages, you will be able to change the language settings.

Where can I find the directory of certification bodies, consultants, and training providers?

This information is located on the standard and program pages under the following headings:

  • “Train” directs you to the training providers page
  • “Implement” provides a search for recognised IFS Consultants
  • “Audit/Assess” contains a search for certification bodies and assessment services providers.

Each standard and program page offers a “one-stop shop” in which you can access all the relevant information and documents and locate our partners immediately.

Where do I find the audit time calculation tool?

The audit time calculation tool has moved from the website to the IFS Software. It is integrated into the IFS auditXpressX and the new auditXpress Neo software. We provide the software free of charge to certified and global markets assessed companies, consultants, and CBs. You will find it in your login area of the IFS Database.

[Update, 30.11.2023] We also provide an online audit time calculator again. You can access it here.

How do I reach the qualification platforms?

Information and login links to our various qualification platforms have changed. You will find them at the top of the standard and program pages or in the special areas for consultants and training providers.

More is yet to come! We continue to optimise the site based on the feedback we are receiving. It will get new features as we look to expand our services further.

 

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About IFS

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.

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2002
Foundation of IFS
> 40
Employees worldwide
2000+
Retail Accounts
> 30000
Certificates & LoCs

Quality Assurance and Integrity Program

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..

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Accreditation & Recognition

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.

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Sustainability / ESG

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.

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Product integrity / PIA

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.

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IFS News

Updated IFS PACsecure 3 Doctrine

We have updated the IFS PACSecure 3 Doctrine. The doctrine provides answers to frequently asked technical questions and clarifies specific requirements.

In the second version of the doctrine, we specify the following topics: 

  • Situations where a remote follow-up audit is acceptable
  • Situations where a follow-up audit can be performed in less than 6 weeks
  • Situations where an audit is considered cancelled
  • Clarification about training requirements for auditors and reviewers
  • Clarification about the head office/central management information on the certificate
  • Clarification on the definitions of dates on the certificate

The doctrine is a normative document complementing the standard. Accordingly, companies, certification bodies and auditors must be aware of its content. 

Ensure you download and read the new IFS PACsecure 3 Doctrine version 2, available in English before your next audit.


New IFS Food 8 Doctrine

We have updated the IFS Food 8 Doctrine. The doctrine provides answers to frequently asked technical questions and clarifies specific requirements.

In the fourth version of the doctrine, we specify the following topics: 

  • Situations where a remote follow-up audit is acceptable
  • Situations where a follow-up audit can be performed in less than 6 weeks
  • Missing audit time due to missing scopes
  • Situations where an audit is considered cancelled
  • Clarification about the head office/central management information on the certificate
  • Clarification on the definitions of dates on the certificate

The doctrine is a normative document complementing the standard. Accordingly, companies, certification bodies and auditors must be aware of its content. 

Make sure to download the new Food 8 Doctrine version 4 in English before your next audit.


New IFS HPC 3 Doctrine and HPC Product Example Chart

We are excited to share two new publications that will help you prepare for the IFS HPC 3 Audit. Discover the essential information and valuable insights they contain.

IFS HPC 3 Doctrine version 2

We updated the IFS HPC 3 Doctrine. It is a normative document that complements the standard. Accordingly, companies, certification bodies and auditors must be aware of its content before the next audit. The current update specifies the following requirements:  

  • Part 1, 2.2 Clarification on whether a textile-based HPC product falls within the scope of the HPC 3 audit
  • Part 1, 2.3.3 Situations where a remote follow-up audit is acceptable and situations where a follow-up audit can be performed in less than 6 weeks
  • Part 1, 4.2.1 Situations where an audit is considered cancelled
  • Annex 1 Scope determination between IFS PACsecure and IFS HPC Standard

IFS HPC Product Example Chart

The chart provides examples to illustrate the appropriate allocation of IFS HPC Product Scopes. The product example chart helps you understand which IFS HPC Product Scope the certification body will select based on the final products manufactured by the production site. 

We have completely revised the structure and layout of this document to enhance its readability and usability. More product examples have been included to align with the updated clarification in the IFS HPC 3 Doctrine version 2.

The IFS HPC Product Example Chart is explanatory and supportive, not normative. It helps companies utilise audit-level knowledge within their processes.

Download the Documents

Discover the essential information and valuable insights that these documents provide: 

  • Download the IFS HPC 3 Doctrine version 2 in English.
  • Download the IFS HPC Product Example Chart in English

View all

IFS Blog

In Brazil's dynamic food market, food safety and quality management are crucial for both producers and consumers. Frimesa is one of the companies committed to excellence in these areas. By utilising the IFS Progress Food Program and later achieving I...

Environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and corporate governance (ESG) are becoming key priorities for consumers, investors, and regulators. To help small and medium-sized businesses address ESG-related risks in their supply chains, IFS ...

I am passionate about helping businesses identify and manage supply chain risks, supporting them to improve and grow. Tina Brune, Director Risk Management Tina has been a valued member of the IFS team for nearly six years, serving as the Director Ris...

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