IFS certification
for the European market.
IFS Food is required by many European retailers. AmpliFlow helps you structure documentation, Food Defense and follow-up.
Challenges with IFS certification
IFS places high demands on documentation, HACCP and Food Defense.
European customers require IFS
German and French retailers often require IFS certification. Without a certificate, you won't get into Aldi, Lidl, Carrefour or Auchan.
Detailed scoring system
IFS uses a point-based scoring system. Each requirement is assessed and you must reach a certain level for certification. Documentation must be in order.
Product protection and Food Defense
IFS has strong requirements for product protection against intentional contamination. You must demonstrate systematic Food Defense work.
KO requirements that must be met
IFS has Knock-Out requirements that automatically lead to failure if not met. These are critical to have in place.
What AmpliFlow is and isn't
We believe in transparency. Here's what you can expect.
Digital management system
AmpliFlow provides document control for HACCP plans and Food Defense, checklists for controls, deviation management and competence matrices.
Physical connection with hardware
AmpliFlow Box is a hardware device installed in production. It automatically prints labels when checklist steps complete and monitors temperatures.
Meet KO requirements
IFS has critical KO requirements for traceability and corrective actions. With automatic label printing and documented controls, you have the evidence auditors require.
Main areas of the standard
IFS is divided into six main chapters. Areas marked with KO contain critical requirements.
Food Safety Management System
KOPolicy, organization, HACCP system and document control. Multiple KO requirements within HACCP.
Management Responsibility
Management commitment, policy, organizational structure and management review.
Resource Management
Human resources, training, personal hygiene and staff facilities.
Operational Processes
KOProduct specifications, purchasing, packaging, product development, allergen management and traceability. KO requirement for allergens.
Measurement, Analysis and Improvement
KOInternal audit, product analysis, calibration, quantity control and deviation management. KO requirement for corrective actions.
Food Defense and Inspections
KOSecurity inspections, Food Defense plan and product protection. KO requirement for Food Defense.
How AmpliFlow supports IFS work
Features that help you document and follow up - with honest limitations.
Document Control
Collect HACCP plans, specifications, Food Defense plans and procedures with role-based permissions. Everyone finds the current version.
Checklists for controls
Create digital checklists for hygiene rounds, production controls and quality controls. Fields for values, photos and ratings.
AmpliFlow Box (hardware)
A small device installed in production. Connects to label printers and automatically prints product labels when checklist steps complete. Meets IFS clause 4.18 traceability requirements.
Deviation Management
Register deviations with categorization. Workflow for analysis, action and verification. Full traceability on who did what.
Risk Analysis (ORA)
Conduct risk analysis with probability x consequence. Use for HACCP hazard analysis and Food Defense assessment.
Limitation: Support for assessment - not automatic hazard identification
Supplier Register
Register of approved suppliers with certificates and approval dates.
Limitation: Basic functionality - no supplier scoring
Competence Management
Competence matrices for training in food hygiene, HACCP and Food Defense. Plan and record completed training.
What you can achieve
Realistic expectations of what structured documentation provides.
documentation
All documentation collected and searchable for auditors.
deviations
Complete history showing continuous improvement work.
Food Defense
Risk assessments and actions saved and accessible.
competence
Training records showing personnel qualifications.
Questions about AmpliFlow and IFS
What is IFS Food?
IFS Food (International Featured Standards) is a GFSI-approved food safety standard developed by German and French retail organizations. It is widespread in Europe and required by many large retailers such as Aldi, Lidl and Carrefour.
What is AmpliFlow Box?
AmpliFlow Box is a hardware device you install at your production facility. It connects to label printers and temperature sensors and communicates with AmpliFlow. When you complete a checklist step, it can automatically print a label or log a temperature reading.
What are KO requirements and how do we meet them?
KO (Knock-Out) are critical requirements in IFS that automatically lead to failure if not met. With AmpliFlow you manage documentation and deviations. With AmpliFlow Box you get automatic traceability and temperature logging that meet KO requirements.
How does IFS differ from BRC?
Both are GFSI-approved and similar in scope. IFS uses a point-based scoring system while BRC has a more binary system. IFS has strong focus on Food Defense. The choice often depends on which customers you target - IFS for Europe (especially Germany/France), BRC for UK.
How long does IFS certification take?
For a food company with basic systems in place, it typically takes 6-12 months. The timeline depends on current maturity and how quickly you can implement improvements, especially around KO requirements.
Can we have both IFS and BRC?
Yes, many companies exporting to both UK and continental Europe have both certifications. AmpliFlow supports integrated systems where you can manage both standards with shared processes.
More questions?
We're happy to answer questions about how AmpliFlow can support your IFS work.
Contact usWant to see how it works?
Book a demo and we'll show you how AmpliFlow can support your work with IFS and food safety.