Edition 10

SQF Code Edition 10: Key Changes and What to Expect

Preparing Your Facility for the 2026 Audit Cycle

The Safe Quality Food (SQF) Code Edition 10 is slated for official release in July 2025, with audits under this updated code expected to begin in the first half of 2026. This new edition introduces strategic updates designed to advance food safety practices and align with evolving global standards.

At Food Safety Systems, we are committed to helping food businesses navigate these regulatory changes and maintain their certification readiness with confidence.

Highlights of SQF Edition 10 Updates

1. Food Safety Culture Enhancement

A comprehensive Food Safety Culture Plan will now be required. Companies must define measurable objectives and performance benchmarks that support a culture of safety across all levels of the organization.

2. Formal Change Management Procedures

A new clause introduces structured change management processes. Facilities will need documented protocols to effectively manage and mitigate risks related to changes in equipment, processes, or personnel.

3. Streamlined Documentation and Recordkeeping

Documentation requirements are being consolidated into a unified section, making it easier for facilities to organize compliance records and for auditors to assess them efficiently.

4. Advanced Training and Competency Requirements

Expect heightened expectations for training and staff competency. The new edition emphasizes tailored training programs and regular assessments to verify the effectiveness of employee skill development in food safety roles.

5. Reinstatement of Pre-Audits

The pre-audit process is returning, allowing sites to conduct thorough internal evaluations before formal certification audits. This promotes proactive improvement and greater audit preparedness.

6. Shift Toward a Pass/Fail Audit Rating

A major change under consideration is the replacement of the traditional audit scoring system with a Pass/Fail framework. This shift would focus more on implementation effectiveness rather than numerical grades.

7. Cybersecurity in Food Defense

The scope of food defense requirements is expanding to include cybersecurity measures. Facilities must now address digital threats that could compromise food safety systems.

8. Introduction of Certified SQF Practitioner Credential

A formal credential for SQF Practitioners is being launched. Applicants must meet experience requirements, receive a recommendation from a sponsor, and complete designated training and assessments.

Public Engagement Opportunity

Stakeholders are encouraged to review and comment on the draft Edition 10 Code. The public comment period is open until May 9, 2025, offering a chance to influence the final version based on real-world application and operational feedback.

Implementation Timeline

• July 2025: Release of SQF Code Edition 10

• Early 2026: Certification audits begin under the new Code

Stay Compliant with Food Safety Systems
Our team is here to support your transition to SQF Edition 10 with gap assessments, documentation updates, and staff training. Contact us today to schedule a readiness consultation or subscribe to updates.
Food Safety Systems — Your Partner in Certification Success.

Food Safety Systems is an independent consulting provider and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Safe Quality Food Institute (SQFI).
SQF® is a registered trademark of SQFI, a division of FMI – The Food Industry Association.

SQF Code Edition 10: Key Changes and What to Expect

Preparing Your Facility for the 2026 Audit Cycle

Highlights of SQF Edition 10 Updates

1. Food Safety Culture Enhancement A comprehensive Food Safety Culture Plan will now be required. Companies must define measurable objectives and performance benchmarks that support a culture of safety across all levels of the organization.

2. Formal Change Management Procedures A new clause introduces structured change management processes. Facilities will need documented protocols to effectively manage and mitigate risks related to changes in equipment, processes, or personnel.

3. Streamlined Documentation and Recordkeeping Documentation requirements are being consolidated into a unified section, making it easier for facilities to organize compliance records and for auditors to assess them efficiently.

4. Advanced Training and Competency Requirements Expect heightened expectations for training and staff competency. The new edition emphasizes tailored training programs and regular assessments to verify the effectiveness of employee skill development in food safety roles.

5. Reinstatement of Pre-Audits The pre-audit process is returning, allowing sites to conduct thorough internal evaluations before formal certification audits. This promotes proactive improvement and greater audit preparedness.

6. Shift Toward a Pass/Fail Audit Rating A major change under consideration is the replacement of the traditional audit scoring system with a Pass/Fail framework. This shift would focus more on implementation effectiveness rather than numerical grades.

7. Cybersecurity in Food Defense The scope of food defense requirements is expanding to include cybersecurity measures. Facilities must now address digital threats that could compromise food safety systems.

8. Introduction of Certified SQF Practitioner Credential A formal credential for SQF Practitioners is being launched. Applicants must meet experience requirements, receive a recommendation from a sponsor, and complete designated training and assessments.

Public Engagement Opportunity Stakeholders are encouraged to review and comment on the draft Edition 10 Code. The public comment period is open until May 9, 2025, offering a chance to influence the final version based on real-world application and operational feedback.

Implementation Timeline • July 2025: Release of SQF Code Edition 10 • Early 2026: Certification audits begin under the new Code

Food Safety Systems is an independent consulting provider and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Safe Quality Food Institute (SQFI). SQF® is a registered trademark of SQFI, a division of FMI – The Food Industry Association.