For the past two years, GMP+International has been constantly updating the requirements of the GMP+FSA module, including the applications (specifications) of the GMP+BA series. Changes sometimes happen very fast, that even certified companies do not have time to keep track of them. Especially during the intersupervisory period.

Therefore we consider it necessary to tell you why it is important to pay attention to updates of requirements and timely implementation of changes in the existing QMS, and what to expect from the new changes in the feed certification scheme in 2020.

The history of GMP+International led to the changes in the certification scheme.

For 25 years, GMP+International has evolved and adapted to changes in feed safety management. As a result, the certification scheme has become complex and not always easy to understand for companies that have expressed a desire to develop and certify a feed assurance scheme in accordance with the requirements of the GMP+Feed Safety Assurance (FSA) module. Therefore, GMP+International stated in 2018 that it was time to simplify the scheme, namely to remove all the complexity of the scheme and apply new ideas through a systematic modernization of GMP+FSA by launching #ProjectGMP+2020.

The goal of #ProjectGMP+2020 is to make no concessions on feed safety.

The essence of #ProjectGMP+2020 is to rewrite the GMP+FSA module standards, including the GMP+BA series appendices (technical requirements) to make them more accessible and structured with the help of the ProjectGMP+2020 working group, feedback from stakeholders (accredited consultants, certified companies, certification bodies).

The structure and design of the GMP+FSA will be changed-simplified, but the content of the standards will remain the same to ensure a high level of feed safety. Explanatory and example documents will also be developed to support participants, the so-called Guidelines.

The advantage of the GMP+FSA module after changes:

The certification scheme itself will be clear in its structure and requirements. In some cases there will be requirements of a more detailed nature and may entail rules to achieve the requirements of the purpose of the certification scheme. There will be some reductions from the test, the requirements will be more focused on achieving a high level of feed safety. Also the new structure will lead to a consistent set of requirements without duplication. Harmonization with the requirements of the international standard ISO 22 000, which is well known and widely used.

When will the modified versions of the documentation be published?

Documentation updates are provided frequently, but are not tied to any specific dates. It depends on various topics and the needs of stakeholders. All information or updates related to this project are posted on the website with #ProjectGMP+2020 or the same recognizable logo.

According to the #ProjectGMP+2020 working group plans, the final versions of the modified GMP+FSA module standards and specifications will be completed in June 2020.

There will also be a transition period for application of the updates and certification of companies.

What changes are already published?

As of now (February 2020) #ProjectGMP+2020 has given us the following changes:

— In December 2019, the International Committee of Experts (IEC) decided to approve a number of changes to the GMP+BA1 Specific feed safety limits. The changes are available in the updated GMP+ BA1 (version 17.12.2019). The changes to these technical requirements are related to the publication of EU Regulation No. 2019/1869, respectively corrections and amendments to Annex 1 of Directive 2002/32/EC .

— Update of the Annex to the GMP+BA4 Minimum Requirements for Sampling and Analysis protocol for Aflotoxin B1 (version 11.12.2019). The main changes are changes in the risk profile for several countries (Ukraine, Italy, Hungary).

— In January 2020, there were changes to Annex 1, GMP+ BA6 Minimum Requirements for Labelling& Delivery. The list with approved GMP+ declarations has been updated.

The international feed transport base (IDTF) has also changed. The International Road Transportation Committee made several changes to the IDTF in January 2020.

— New products classified in the IDTF database.

— Changes to classified products in the IDTF database.

— Cleanup mode modifications.

We recommend that all certified companies and companies facing initial certification follow the GMP+ documentation updates on the official GMP+International (gmpplus.org)