Sealed Air’s Diversey Consulting, in collaboration with GFSI, have released the preliminary results of a GFSI study that explores the efficacy and business impact of the implementation of GFSI recognized schemes. Conducted by Sealed Air, the "GFSI Efficacy Study" preliminary results were presented during the Global Food Safety Conference in Anaheim, Calif. on Feb. 26.

“Certification to a GFSI recognized scheme demonstrates that food safety management systems are more effective, thus delivering greater confidence in the safety of the products which are delivered to the consumer,” said Catherine Francois, global director of Diversey Consulting.

The study included 834 food manufacturers across 21 countries, including organizations in North America, Mexico, Western Europe, Australia and New Zealand. The research concluded that the primary driver to implement a GFSI recognized scheme was to meet an existing or new customer requirement.

Noteworthy study results include:

• A large majority of survey respondents say that certification against a GFSI recognized scheme has enhanced their ability to produce safe food.
• A majority of respondents say that certification has helped them improve compliance with existing regulations and helped them better prepare for future regulatory changes.
• The majority of respondents say that certifications have strengthened their food safety culture through enhancements in training, increased communication, better measurements and strengthened management commitment.

“This landmark study provides further evidence of the role credible private food safety efforts can play in advancing food safety, enhancing regulatory compliance and promoting a culture of food safety so that consumers worldwide can live better,” said Frank Yiannas, vice president of Food Safety for Walmart and GFSI vice chair.

While the research also showed that short-term costs of implementing GFSI recognized schemes exist, some of the efficiencies hoped for through the elimination of redundancies have not been realized. The results will be used to drive even greater operational efficiencies by the GFSI Board.

The results from the study will be submitted for publication in a peer reviewed scientific publication.