BRC certification is a globally recognized standard for food safety and quality management. In Canada, it has become increasingly important as retailers and consumers expect safer and more reliable food products.
This guide offers an easy-to-read overview of BRC certification requirements, the process, benefits, and common challenges for Canadian food businesses.
What is BRC certification?
BRC certification was developed by the British Retail Consortium (BRC). It is used worldwide by:
Food manufacturers
Retailers
Certification bodies
Its purpose is to ensure food safety, legal compliance, and quality management.
The BRC standard outlines clear requirements that help businesses confirm their food products are safe, legal, and consistently high-quality.
Why is BRC certification important for Canadian food manufacturers?
BRC certification helps Canadian manufacturers demonstrate a strong commitment to food safety and quality.
It is especially useful for businesses that export to global markets where BRC certification is often mandatory.
The certification also helps businesses:
Identify gaps in their processes
Implement best practices
Improve product consistency
Build trust with customers, distributors, and retailers
As a result, it strengthens brand reputation and supports long-term growth.
What is the BRC certification process in Canada?
The certification journey includes several structured steps:
Choose an accredited certification body.
Submit documentation for preliminary review.
Undergo an on-site audit to verify compliance with BRC standards.
Address any non-conformities identified during the audit.
Complete a re-audit (if required).
Receive BRC certification upon meeting all requirements.
BRC certification must be renewed yearly, and businesses must complete periodic audits to maintain compliance.
Need help with obtaining your BRC certification?
Need help with obtaining your BRC certification?
Contact Quality Smart Solutions today! We can help.
What are the requirements for BRC certification?
Requirements vary slightly between versions of the BRC standard. However, most businesses must:
Maintain a documented food safety management system
Perform regular risk assessments
Implement corrective and preventive actions
Train employees on food safety and quality procedures
Meet all legal and regulatory requirements
Comply with customer-specific guidelines
Thorough preparation ensures a smoother auditing experience.
What are the benefits of BRC certification for Canadian manufacturers?
BRC certification enhances food safety and boosts credibility. Key benefits include:
Increased customer trust
Improved access to major retailers and distributors
Better internal process control
Reduced risk of food safety incidents
Stronger competitive positioning
Higher product quality and consistency
It also helps manufacturers stay aligned with the latest industry standards and regulations.
Why is BRC certification important for businesses in Canada?
Canadian consumers are increasingly aware of food safety concerns.
Many retailers and foodservice companies require BRC certification from suppliers.
Certification also helps companies:
Streamline operations
Identify inefficiencies
Reduce costs through better systems and documentation
What are the BRC standards?
The BRC Global Standard for Food Safety contains seven core sections:
Senior Management Commitment & Continuous Improvement
The Food Safety Plan (HACCP)
Food Safety & Quality Management System
Site Standards
Product Control
Process Control
Personnel
These sections create a strong framework for managing food safety and product quality.
How do I get BRC certification?
To begin the certification process:
Select the appropriate BRC standard for your business.
Implement the standard’s requirements into daily operations.
Train staff on food safety and quality management.
Undergo an audit by a third-party certification body.
If all requirements are met, you will receive BRC certification.
What are the steps to prepare for BRC certification?
Preparing for certification can be demanding. Key steps include:
Identify the correct BRC standard for your product category
Study the requirements carefully
Create a tailored implementation plan
Conduct a gap analysis to identify weaknesses
Make required improvements
Perform internal audits
Request a pre-audit from a certification body
Undergo the official certification audit
What are the challenges in the BRC certification process?
Many businesses struggle with:
Understanding detailed requirements
Updating outdated processes
Managing extensive documentation
Training a large or diverse workforce
Addressing these challenges early helps avoid delays during audits.
How can BRC certification enhance food safety?
BRC certification strengthens food safety systems through:
Thorough hazard analysis
Clear identification of critical control points (HACCP)
Traceability systems
Routine product testing
Staff training on food safety practices
These measures help reduce food safety risks and protect consumers.
How does BRC certification enhance brand reputation?
Displaying the BRC logo shows that your business meets high global standards.
This builds trust among consumers and buyers.
Many major retailers and international companies prefer or require BRC-certified suppliers, giving certified businesses a strong competitive edge.
How can BRC certification help you access new markets?
BRC certification supports easier entry into markets across North America and globally.
It is recognized by many regulatory bodies, including the U.S. FDA, as a benchmark for strong food safety systems.
Certification helps Canadian companies comply with international regulations and expand their reach.
How does BRC certification compare to other food safety standards?
Standards like ISO 22000, SQF, and FSSC 22000 also offer solid frameworks.
However:
BRC Global Standards is one of the most widely accepted
It is preferred by retailers and foodservice companies worldwide
Its comprehensive structure and strong industry recognition make it a top choice for food manufacturers.
What are the BRC certification costs and timeline?
Costs depend on factors such as:
The BRC standard used
Size and complexity of operations
Number of sites
Level of consultant or auditor support required
Certification can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars.
The entire process may take several months to a full year, depending on readiness and audit scheduling.
Want to know where to get a BRC Certification?
Quality Smart Solutions assists businesses with:
Food safety certification
Regulatory support
FSMA-FSVP compliance
Their experts help companies understand requirements and prepare for audits with confidence.
If you’re unsure which certification level you need, consulting with specialists can save time and prevent mistakes.
Get in touch with experts to know which level of certification you need!
Conclusion: Why BRC Certification Is Worth Considering for Your Food Business
BRC certification strengthens food safety systems, improves product quality, and opens access to new markets.
Although the process requires effort, training, and investment, the long-term benefits better compliance, stronger reputation, and global competitiveness—make it worthwhile.
By adopting BRC standards, Canadian food businesses can operate confidently and stand out in a highly competitive industry.
