The BRCGS (British Retail Consortium Global Standards) are specifications developed by the British Retail Consortium in response to the needs of UK members of the consortium. The British Retail Consortium (BRCGS) is the trade association of a range of independent retailers, large multiples and department stores, selling a wide range of products. BRCGS Global Standards are used by suppliers and global retailers. BRCGS standards specify requirements for standardization of quality, safety, operational criteria, and manufacturers’ fulfillment of legal obligations. They also help provide protection to the consumer.
The Global Standard for Food Safety is based on two key components: senior management commitment and HACCP.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
The standard demands:
FUNDAMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
A Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) food safety plan.
Management commitment to provide sufficient resources.
A quality management system that details the organizational and managerial policies.
A series of pre-requisite programs for environmental and operational conditions needed for the production of food and controlling the food safety hazards.
DOCUMENTATION & OTHER REQUIREMENTS
The BRCGS – Food safety standard documentation shall include:
Food safety policy and related objectives,
Food safety manual & HACCP Plan,
Pre-requisite programs,
Documented procedures & work instructions,
Documents and records needed for the effective implementation of processes.