We are proud to announce that we have retained our BRCGS grade of AA, we’re incredibly proud to have received their highest grade. This BRCGS certification confirms our dedication to implementing operational excellence and best practices in accordance with the BRCGS’ global food safety standards for quality packaging.

What is BRCGS?

BRCGS stands for the Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standards. It is a global organisation that enforces the food safety and standards throughout the entire supply chain for the food industry. They ensure legal requirements are met at every touchpoint and set a benchmark for best practices across food safety, packaging materials, manufacturing, ingredients, storage and distribution, Gluten-Free, Ethical Trading, and more. Founded in 1996, the BRGCGS standards are currently used by companies in over 130 countries.

What are the BRCGS grades?

BRCGS grades range from AA (best) to Uncertified (fail). A company’s grade is determined by an audit carried out by the BRCGS certification body. You will be assessed on how well you conform to certification standards and specifications, listing the number of non-conformances.

Non-conformities are defined as critical, major, or minor, depending on the type and risk level, with critical non-conformities relating to food safety or legal issues. The number and type of non-conformities you have, indicate your BRCGS grade. Any critical non-conformities can result in non-grading, meaning a failure or removal of your certificate.

An overview of the BRCGS grades:

  • AA Grade: 5 minors or less.
  • A Grade: 5 to 10 minors.
  • B Grade: 11 to 16 minors. Or 1 major minor with up to 10 minors.
  • C Grade: 17 to 24 minors. Or, 1 major with up to 16 minors, or 2 majors with up to 10 minors.
  • D Grade: 25 to 30 minors. Or, 1 major with up to 24 minors, or 2 majors with up to 16 minors.
  • Uncertified: 1 or more criticals or 3 or more majors. It can also be uncertified for 31+ minors, 1 major with 25+ minors, or 2 majors with 17+ minors.

The benefits of being BRCGS Certified

Not only are we proud to be associated with the approved standards set by BRCGS, but having a BRCGS certification also offers several additional advantages, such as:

Meeting food safety standards

A high BRCGS grading illustrates that we take food hygiene and safety seriously. Putting in place the correct processes and procedures to meet legal requirements.

Supply chain confidence

With more and more companies aligning with the BRCGS standards, you may find clients prefer to partner with those who work to similar values and have a higher BRCGS grading.

Customer trust & loyalty

Customer shopping patterns are evolving, and more are aligning with their ethical values. They will purposely choose to trust and purchase from those who incorporate safe, sustainable solutions.

Encourages good manufacturing practices

A BRCGS grading illustrates that we are implementing efficient and sustainable processes. This not only meets the highest standard of food safety but also offers cost-effective, long-term solutions.

Reflects who we are

At Constantia FFP, we’re aware of our environmental impact and responsibility, that’s why it is one of our core values to implement innovative packaging solutions that help our clients and the planet. Our BRCGS AA reflects our continuous efforts in our sustainability mission.

Looking to the future

Our BRCGS rating of AA illustrates to our clients, customers, and colleagues that we are focused on providing the highest-quality food packaging in the market. We offer premium packaging products to the food industry, including printed and plain flexible packaging, pre-made pouches, and recyclable lidding film.

Over the years, we have invested heavily in our manufacturing processes and capabilities. So, we are incredibly proud of this BRCGS grading and helping others incorporate sustainable flexible packaging solutions that are both functional and branded for their industries.