Global G.A.P. Certificate – What Is It? Requirements and Standards
In 1997, a food safety assurance system for unprocessed food was established, covering plant, horticultural, fruit, and livestock production, initially known as EUREGAP. This is an international and voluntary standard.
It was initiated by a network of retailers grouped in the European organization EUREP, whose goal was to set uniform procedures and common agricultural production standards. The name of this standard, Good Agricultural Practice(G.A.P.), stems directly from these objectives, which means Best Agricultural Practices.
Global G.A.P. Assumptions
Global G.A.P. is an international standard for agricultural and production practices aimed at agricultural producers. Its assumptions include:
- Ensuring the highest quality and food safety standards.
- Proper labeling, storage, and application of plant protection products, animal feed, veterinary medicines, and other substances.
- Correct fertilization, cultivation techniques, irrigation, waste management, workplace safety, hygiene, and environmental care.
Global G.A.P. Certificate – Benefits
Companies that meet the standards set by Global G.A.P. can obtain certification. Meeting all the requirements confirms the high-quality standards of the certified products. Holding this certification also directly enhances the producer’s image, showcasing their efforts to support sustainable agriculture, environmental protection, and consumer safety.
Having the Global G.A.P. certificate helps secure new markets and acquire new customers, both locally and globally. It is an internationally recognized symbol of product quality, serving as a value-added element in negotiations with potential clients.
Operating based on standardized procedures directly impacts the supply chain. Suppliers with certified production do not require additional inspections or adjustments to meet individual retailer standards. The uniform standards set by Global G.A.P. ensure food safety while optimizing processes and quickly identifying and responding to irregularities.
By aligning procedures with the quality management system defined by Global G.A.P., businesses can positively influence their performance and improve management methods.
Obtaining a Global G.A.P. certificate also grants access to the complete online certification database. This allows companies to easily check contractors and the certificates they have obtained.
How to Obtain the Global G.A.P. Certificate?
All producers of unprocessed agricultural products can apply for Global G.A.P. certification. However, it is especially popular among producers and suppliers of fresh fruits and vegetables, as it is often required by retail chains or their other contractors.
Obtaining the certificate involves several simple steps:
Step 1 – The producer interested in obtaining the Global G.A.P. certificate should review the necessary documents and checklists required for implementation on the official website https://www.globalgap.org/uk_en/.
Step 2 – Register your business with the appropriate certification body.
Step 3 – Perform a self-assessment using the checklists provided by Global G.A.P. At this stage, it is possible to introduce modifications to systems that do not comply with the required standards.
Step 4 – Schedule the first audit with the chosen certification body.
Step 5 – Adjust food production to meet the certification requirements, allowing the company to obtain the Global G.A.P. certificate. It is valid for one year and specifies the scope of production covered by the certificate.
How to Extend the Certificate for Another Year?
To extend the certificate, another self-assessment is required to verify compliance with its standards. At this stage, the required changes should already be implemented and well understood, making the renewal process easier.
Following the self-assessment, the solutions are verified by an external auditor. A positive result of the verification allows the company to retain its Global G.A.P. certification.
Who Benefits from the Global G.A.P. Certificate?
Holding a Global G.A.P. certificate benefits both the company owner and the other participants in the supply chain.
The company owner receives confirmation that they meet strict quality standards and other requirements for obtaining the certification. This allows them to enjoy the added value of their products and the positive PR associated with certification. The efforts put into achieving this certification can result in tangible benefits.
For the other links in the supply chain, the certificate serves as proof that their contractor meets stringent standards and complies with uniform requirements, ensuring high and consistent product quality. The production process itself becomes reliable and environmentally friendly.