The Safe Feed/Safe Food (SF/SF) Certification Program is expanding its reach with updated guidance and a new certification category for warehouse, storage and distribution facilities.
Following a yearlong review and modernization effort, the program is introducing the Safe Feed/Safe Food Warehouse, Storage and Distribution (SF/SF WSD) Certification Program. Eligible facilities can pursue certification under the new category, while more than 1,000 facilities that already hold at least one SF/SF certification and facilities considering certification for the first time can begin using Version 8.0 of the program.
The updates are designed to make SF/SF certification more accessible while addressing the evolving needs of the animal food supply chain.
Warehouse, storage and distribution facilities play an important role in maintaining animal food safety and quality as feed and ingredients move between suppliers, manufacturers and customers. Proper storage, handling, sanitation and traceability practices help prevent contamination, preserve product integrity and ensure materials arrive safely.
The existing SF/SF certification did not address the unique characteristics and operations of these facilities. The new SF/SF WSD certification recognizes the distinct responsibilities and risks associated with storing and distributing animal food and ingredients.
The new category was developed in response to industry demand. Warehouse, storage and distribution facilities already participating in SF/SF may be reevaluated under the new SF/SF WSD requirements. Facilities that successfully complete the certification process will receive a unique SF/SF WSD seal to communicate their certification to customers and other supply chain partners.
The expansion broadens the program beyond feed manufacturing facilities to include operations where animal food and ingredients are stored and handled.
Version 8.0 is the first major revision to the SF/SF program in nearly a decade. Its core certification requirements remain unchanged, but the updated materials are designed to better reflect current industry practices and regulatory expectations.
Industry stakeholder feedback helped guide the revision. The updated guidance is intended to improve usability, remove redundancies and make it easier for facilities to understand and apply program requirements.
Version 8.0 also emphasizes continuous improvement. Animal food safety requires facilities to regularly assess procedures, identify potential risks and adapt practices as operations, technologies and regulatory expectations change.
By updating the guidance without changing the program's foundational requirements, Version 8.0 maintains the rigor of the SF/SF certification while making the process easier to navigate.
The American Feed Industry Association will continue working with the Food and Drug Administration's Center for Veterinary Medicine and state feed control officials to increase awareness of the SF/SF program and its role in supporting regulatory compliance and inspections.
The updated program provides facilities with a framework for managing risks, strengthening operations and building confidence throughout the animal food supply chain.
More information about Version 8.0, the SF/SF WSD certification and the certification process is available at safefeedsafefood.org.
Source: American Feed Industry Association, "Safe Feed/Safe Food Program Expands and Modernizes to Meet Industry Needs"