GMP+ Feed Safety Standards

Business Challenge

Feed safety and quality are key issues for all companies handling feedstuffs and can have serious consequences when control is lost. A systematic approach is imperative for reducing risk and improving quality. Companies seeking to internationalize their business in Europe must be certified to a standard recognized by the GMP+ International (former PDV) organization. The GMP+ certification is also recognized by other feed certification schemes. Knowledge of GMP+ is spreading and the certificate is requested at a continuously greater extent throughout the world. The GMP+ regulations are in a process of continuous development and improvement and changes are relevant to all organizations in the international supply chain.

Solution

The GMP+ standards have been developed to harmonize requirements for feed in order to ensure quality and safety throughout the entire feed chain. It is based on widely recognized principles of quality assurance, Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP). Choosing which standard (B1,B2, etc.) and certification scope (production of feed materials, trade, etc.) depends on the organization’s role in the feed chain. GMP+B1 is mandatory for the production of compound feed, but can also be used for the production of feed materials and transport. B2 can be used for the production of feed materials and feed additives, while B3 is intended for trade and transshipment. Each of these standards is intended for different means of feed transport (e.g. B4.1 is intended for truck transport). All steps in the supply chain are thus covered by the given requirements. GMP+ certifications can be viewed online in the certified companies database on www.gmpplus.org.