The suspension of IFS as well as this week’s upholding of the suspension are unfounded and arbitrary.
From the very beginning, the suspension decision was based on false facts. In its suspension decision GFSI claimed that "IFS shared limited information on actions taken by the CB, the manufacturing site and the outcome of the regulatory investigation."
This reasoning is not correct and has been objected by IFS with its appeal. Thus, IFS had sent e-mails on 30 September, 4 October, 6 October, 12 October and 17 October with information about the case to GFSI. Furthermore, the e-mail from IFS from 17 October 2022, that contained a number of important pieces of information about the case, was not taken into account when deciding about the suspension. In addition, GFSI also incorrectly stated that IFS did not respond to GFSI reminders on 13 October and 24 October 2022.
Although IFS considers the suspension by GFSI to be unlawful and arbitrary and has appealed against it, IFS has already responded to all remedies - both those imposed by the suspension decision and the additional ones imposed on 13 January 2023 and 7 February 2023. were imposed after that the first was met.
Nonetheless, GFSI has maintained the suspension of IFS without giving any reason or explanation to IFS or the public that has been informed by GFSI through its website. By posting the suspension on its website without giving a reason, the GFSI is violating its own regulations.
We deplore this situation and deeply regret the confusion it creates.
IFS assures that the 23000+ active IFS Certificates will continue to be accepted by European retailers and wholesalers as well as by IFS Partners from retail, wholesale, industry and food service all over the world.
Our 82 approved accredited certification bodies and their 1300+ auditors around the world are operating with no obstacle to ensure business continuity and make sure your audits are undertaken on time and that your certificates are valid and gives your customers trust and confidence in your food safety management systems.
Our priority is to keep the certification programs ongoing and protect the certificates awarded by the IFS Certification Bodies.
We are at your disposal with our entire team to answer all your questions.
