How to Qualify for BRCGS Gluten-Free Certification

As more people become aware of celiac disease or simple gluten sensitivity, millions of consumers are seeking ways to enjoy their favorite foods without exposure to wheat, rye, barley, or other sources of gluten. Now, products with gluten-free labeling are becoming one of the fastest-rising food categories in the world. In fact, the market for gluten-free food is currently valued at $6.5 billion and expected to grow to $15.1 billion by 2032.

In order to bear a voluntary gluten-free label, the FDA requires products to meet very specific criteria about ingredients and processing. Securing BRCGS gluten-free certification can help manufacturers ensure they meet these requirements and promote their products to the gluten-sensitive community with less risk of a recall for accidental mislabeling. Of course, it takes special care and planning to meet the certification’s rigorous requirements.

Why BRCGS Gluten-Free Labeling Is So Important for Food Manufacturers

Acquiring BRCGS gluten-free certification grants companies the right to display a range of gluten-free labeling trademarks recognized all over the world. This not only grants market access, but also earns brands recognition from leading celiac associations across the globe, ensuring consumer trust and building authority in the gluten-sensitive community. In fact, certified companies are even given free listing in the BRCGS Directory, putting brands in front of consumers seeking specific product types.

On the operational side, the rigorous standards behind certification for gluten-free labeling significantly reduce the risk of product recalls, protecting companies from large and unexpected financial losses. Combining audits for the certification also streamlines compliance processes and frees up more resources each year for actual production.

How to Achieve BRCGS Gluten-Free Certification

Achieving certification for BRCGS gluten-free labeling is a straightforward process:

1. Download the certification standard for review so your team understands exactly what’s required.
2. Register interest in certification with BRCGS. To do this, use the Register Interest contact form and select gluten-free as your area of interest.
3. Sign the license agreement and Schedule A form, which lists the recognized products eligible to carry gluten-free labeling trademarks covered under BRCGS gluten-free certification.
4. Train your staff on the requirements of the BRCGS gluten-free standard in preparation for the official certification audit.
5. Conduct a detailed self-assessment using BRCGS tools to ensure your company is ready for the audit.
6. Find an authorized certification body to carry out the audit.
7. Once approved for certification, you can work directly with BRCGS for authorization to use gluten-free labeling trademark(s) with your brand. Draft up artwork associated with your packaging and other materials, and submit to BRCGS for approval.
   
   

4 Certification Tips for BRCGS Gluten-Free Labeling

Though the seven steps to certification for BRCGS’s gluten-free labeling seem straightforward, the auditing process is actually quite challenging and can expose a number of operational issues. Here are four tips for navigating these trials:

1. Stay up to date on evolving requirements.
   BRCGS periodically revises terminology and compliance standards to address emerging industry challenges and regulatory changes. Case in point, the transition from Issue 3 to Issue 4 introduced a number of updates impacting the certification process. Understanding these changes is key to ensuring your operation is aligned with the latest standards.
   
   
2. Ensure proper resource allocation for gluten-free management.
   BRCGS auditors pay significant attention to resource allocation throughout the operation. Senior management must show a commitment during the audit to continuously allocating enough time and funding for staff to develop and implement an effective and reliable gluten-free management system.
   
   
3. Implement robust supplier approval and ingredient verification.
   Maintaining strict control over your supply chain is critical for preserving the integrity of your products. Regular risk assessments help identify potential hazards, and ensure suppliers have appropriate certifications and maintain necessary standards.
   
   
4. Invest in training.
   Providing comprehensive training for all personnel, including temporary and contract staff, ensures your team is fully informed about gluten-free controls and the specifics of the BRCGS standard, minimizing the risk of allergen cross-contact and non-compliance. Beyond maintaining the integrity and safety of gluten-free products, this training will enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of your food safety program, and help employees proactively identify potential issues before they become problems. Exceed Certification Standards With AIB International

Certification for gluten-free labeling requires rigorous adherence to standards throughout your entire operation. Even with BRCGS resources, it can be difficult to efficiently and cost-effectively attain full compliance.

AIB International offers a wide range of food safety trainings, including expertise on managing and maintaining gluten-free compliant operations. Want extra help ensuring your operation is up to standards? Learn more about our BRCGS Gluten-Free Certification support, today.