SQF Fundamentals Verification Assessment (FVA)

The SQF FVA remote assessment program is not like traditional certifications. It is designed to showcase your small business’ readiness and ability to proactively identify, address, and manage food safety risks. Ask your customer if they will accept the SQF FVA program for approval as a new small supplier. While SQF FVA doesn’t replace onsite audits that some customers may require, it offers a unique, independently verified self-assessment process that demonstrates your dedication to maintaining a safe food environment and can help you prepare for certification in the future. 

• Upon completion, you’ll receive a Verification Declaration, giving assurance to your customer that your food safety preparedness was thoughtfully validated by an SQF-approved and licensed certification body.
• Low Cost of Adoption: FVA is 60% less than the cost of a typical onsite audit.
• No Onsite Audit: The site conducts an internal audit to demonstrate the site’s ability to effectively assess food safety risks and implement corrective and preventive measures.
• Internal Audit: An internal audit identifies improvements the site needs and the implementation timeline.
• Review of Results: A third-party review of results evaluates the effectiveness of the internal audit and the site’s readiness to supply products to retailers accepting this assessment.
• Recognition: The site is issued a Verification Declaration to promote their FVA status