In December 2018, we already informed you about the arrival of BRC Packaging version 6, as the draft version was published at that time. Meanwhile, the feedback round has taken place and the final version of the standard was published in August. From February 2020, the first audits according to the new standard will take place.
The purpose of the revision is to implement the new risk-based thinking and connection to the market in all BRC standards. Below we list the most important changes:
- The distinction between "high hygiene products" and "basic hygiene products" has been dropped. The company is expected to substantiate on the basis of risk assessments what hygiene requirements should be used.
- Conducting a root cause analysis in conjunction with a continuous improvement cycle, are considered so important that it has been included as a new fundamental. Companies are expected to maintain a continuous cycle of improvement. When set goals are not achieved, companies should identify the cause to ensure that this does not happen again in the future.
- Also new is the emphasis on creating framework conditions for improving product safety culture. The company should have a clear plan for developing and continuously improving product safety and quality culture.
- In the new standard, companies must estimate the risks in terms of the survival rate of microorganisms on packaging. Based on this, a management plan may need to be drawn up.
- There is a new module for better control of process waste, including pallets, powder and flakes.
- In line with GFSI requirements, a change has been made to the audit protocol. Companies can now only choose either totally unannounced- or totally announced audits.
Need support?
Of course, there are more changes to the standard. Are you curious what the impact is for your company or are you considering working with this BRC standard? We would like to help you. For questions or support contact us at +31 (0)30 - 65 66 010 or info@precongroup.com.