This accreditation is an important achievement as it widens DNV’s food safety and quality prospects in the international market, according to project manager Stefano Crea. He is also DNV Certification’s global food safety manager.

Food retailers regularly conduct audits to check the food safety aspects of the suppliers of their own branded food products. These audits are conducted by independent auditors from qualified bodies.

The International Food Standard, IFS, was established by German food retailers two years ago in order to create a common food safety standard. French food retailers joined the cooperation last year.

Only qualified auditors can carry out IFS auditing. They are trained and skilled, and must prove their competence through written and oral examinations.

Growing interest
DNV has already certified a couple of food companies in Italy and has given its support to the certification of companies in:

• Mexico (Barcel, part of the Bimbo group)
• Denmark (Vestlax Hirtshals, Dan prawn A/S, A. Fisk)
• Poland (Podravka)
• Audits have also been carried out in Argentina

“This demonstrates the growing interest in the standard, not only in Europe but also in South America,” says Stefano Crea.