IFS Launches Version 3 of Its Logistics Standard

IFS has rolled out version 3 of its Logistics standard, marking a significant step forward in the logistics and supply chain industry. The updated standard incorporates the latest market expectations and regulatory demands, ensuring relevance and precision. Developed collaboratively with international experts from various sectors such as logistics, food industry, and retail, version 3 focuses on reducing complexity by having fewer but more targeted requirements, an optimized protocol for auditing, and a streamlined structure.

The new standard introduces a new scope for animal feed and adds services for simple sorting of fruits and vegetables and labeling. It also extends and clarifies the existing scope, particularly to improve the short-term storage and transport of containers and includes partly outsourced logistics processing services. This enhancement aims to simplify compliance and make it easier for stakeholders to work within the framework while meeting high safety and quality standards.

In the spirit of continuous improvement and accountability, version 3 of IFS Logistics incorporates a renewed emphasis on unannounced audits, ensuring that companies are consistently adhering to standards. This effort is complemented by the introduction of the IFS Star status, which signals to partners and customers that a company has undergone rigorous, surprise evaluations. The scoring system has been refined as well, reinstating the B-score as a deviation, which pushes companies to define corrective actions and fosters an environment of perpetual enhancement. Version 3 aligns with global food safety standards, including the Codex Alimentarius and ISO/IEC 17065, and considers ISO 22003-2, demonstrating IFS Logistics' commitment to international best practices.

To support companies in adopting the new standard, IFS Logistics has established a comprehensive support system that includes industry-specific training, access to approved consultants, and innovative tools like the new IFS AuditXpress Neo software and the IFS Audit Manager App. These tools are designed to facilitate internal audits, compliance tracking, and reporting. For a seamless transition from the previous version, IFS Logistics will provide checklist comparisons.

IFS Logistics version 3 audits are possible starting 1 June 2024 and become mandatory on 1 December 2024.

For unannounced audits version 3 applies when the audit window starts on or after 1 June 2024.

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