BRC IOP Packaging Food Safety 

BRC IOP Packaging is a food safety standard aimed at suppliers of packaging and packaging materials used in the food and non-food industry. The objective of the BRC IOP Packaging standard is to ensure the quality of packaging materials and compliance with food safety requirements for food packaging. The BRC IOP Packaging Management System was developed by the British Retail Consortium (BRC), in collaboration with the Institute of Packaging (IOP). 

The fundamental requirement of the BRC IOP Packaging scheme is to ensure packaging safety and compliance with all legal and hygienic requirements. 

In order to ensure the quality of the packaging and a correct management during the manufacturing processes of the material and its conversion, it is necessary to analyze the types of risks in order to categorize the system in 2 levels. 

– High Hygiene Risk, when the container or packaging has direct contact with the product, either food or personal hygiene products. 

– Low Hygiene Risk, when packaging for consumer products is for all uses. 

The BRC IOP Packaging scheme can be integrated with IFS PACsecure, ISO 22000, FSSC 22000 and standards such as ISO 9001 and ISO 14001. 

BRC IOP Packaging is a standard increasingly understood as an indispensable requirement to be able to be a supplier of large food companies. One of the main advantages is the improved positioning for the company within the sector and the clear options for market growth that this brings. 

BRC IOP Packaging certification is relevant to a wide range of companies operating in the packaging industry, including, but not limited to: 

Food and Beverage companies: those packaging food and beverages, as food safety is of utmost importance. 

Pharmaceutical and Cosmetics Industry: To ensure the safety and integrity of packaging for drugs, medical products, beauty and personal care products. 

Chemical Industry: Companies that package chemicals and hazardous products, to prevent risks and ensure safe handling and transportation. 

Packaging Companies: Including manufacturers of containers and packaging, since BRC IOP Packaging certification can be an important differentiator in the quality and safety of their products. 

Distributors and Wholesalers: Those who work in the packaging supply chain and wish to ensure that they are complying with safety and quality standards. 

Export Companies: To facilitate entry into international markets where BRC IOP Packaging certification is highly valued. 

Certification to BRC Packaging is essential for companies operating in the packaging industry for several key reasons: 

Quality Assurance: The standard sets rigorous quality and safety standards, which ensures that your products meet the highest requirements. This strengthens your customers’ confidence in the quality of your containers and packaging. 

Legal Compliance: By obtaining certification, you ensure that your company complies with legal regulations and requirements for food safety and packaged products. This reduces the risk of legal sanctions and product recalls. 

Access to International Markets: BRC Packaging certification is internationally recognized, making it easier for you to enter global markets and expand your business internationally. 

Operational Efficiency: Implementing BRC practices and standards can improve operational efficiency, reducing costs and waste, while increasing productivity and profitability. 

Reputation Enhancement: Displaying the BRC logo on your products and packaging demonstrates your commitment to quality and safety, which can enhance your reputation and attract new customers. 

The BRC IOP Packaging scheme is applicable to companies, material manufacturers or packaging converters (paper, film, cardboard, plastic, etc.) in the food industry as well as in other industries.