When it comes to global food trade, food safety certification is more than a formality—it’s a ticket to market access, brand reputation, and consumer trust. While both BRCGS (Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standards) and ISO 22000 are internationally recognized food safety standards, many food exporters lean towards BRCGS certification. But why?
This article explores the key reasons why BRCGS is often the preferred Food Safety Management System (FSMS) for food exporters, especially those aiming for the UK, EU, or retailer-driven markets.
1. BRCGS Offers Stronger Market Recognition
BRCGS is widely accepted by global retailers, especially in the UK and Europe. Many major supermarkets and food retailers explicitly require BRCGS certification from their suppliers. In contrast, ISO 22000 is often seen as a general framework without specific industry mandates.
✅ BRCGS is GFSI-recognized and retailer-driven, which makes it more market-specific and trusted for export.
2. Detailed and Prescriptive Requirements
BRCGS provides clear, detailed, and prescriptive requirements, making it easier for businesses to understand what exactly needs to be implemented. This level of detail ensures better consistency across suppliers and fewer audit discrepancies.
In comparison, ISO 22000 is risk-based and flexible, which can be beneficial—but it also leaves room for interpretation, sometimes leading to gaps in implementation.
3. Greater Emphasis on Product Safety and Integrity
BRCGS includes additional clauses related to product integrity, fraud prevention, traceability, and food defense—critical aspects in the international food supply chain. These elements go beyond basic food safety and are vital for brand protection and consumer confidence.
🛡️ Exporters need a system that protects not just food safety but also the brand reputation—and BRCGS delivers on both.
4. Alignment with Retailer Requirements
Retailers and importers often maintain strict approved supplier lists, and BRCGS certification is frequently a non-negotiable requirement. ISO 22000 may not meet these buyer-specific standards, especially in Western export markets.
🚢 For exporters, meeting buyer specifications is as important as meeting legal standards—BRCGS covers both.
5. Structured Grading System and Audit Transparency
BRCGS offers graded certification results (AA, A, B, etc.), which gives retailers and stakeholders a clearer idea of the site’s performance. This level of transparency is appealing in international trade, where accountability is critical.
ISO 22000 certification, however, offers pass/fail outcomes only, with limited insight into performance levels.
6. Additional Modules and Customization
BRCGS allows for voluntary add-ons such as Environmental Monitoring, Food Safety Culture, Gluten-Free, or Ethical Trade audits—making it adaptable to diverse buyer needs.
This modularity enhances the value proposition for exporters, especially those targeting premium or specialized markets.
7. Robust Auditor Competency and Scheme Integrity
BRCGS maintains strict control over certification bodies and auditors, ensuring uniformity and credibility across all audits. This gives confidence to global buyers that every BRCGS certificate represents the same high standard, regardless of the issuing country.
Conclusion
While ISO 22000 remains a strong and globally accepted FSMS, BRCGS offers more export-focused advantages, including better alignment with retailer requirements, enhanced product integrity controls, and superior market access.
For food exporters aiming to penetrate high-demand, retailer-driven markets, BRCGS isn’t just a certification—it’s a competitive advantage.
Need Help Choosing the Right FSMS?
If you’re planning to export and want to ensure your business meets international expectations, we can help you select and implement the most suitable food safety standard. Contact SAFO Consultancy for expert guidance on BRCGS and ISO 22000 implementation.