GLOBAL GAP
 In responding to the demands of consumers, European retailers and their global suppliers have created and implemented a series of sector specific farm certification standards. The aim is to ensure integrity, transparency and harmonisation of global agricultural standards. This includes the requirements for safe food that is produced respecting worker health, safety and welfare, environmental and animal welfare issues.
Real IPM Company has a strong team of GLOBAL GAP accredited trainers. The Real IPM team is well qualified to provide flower, fruit and vegetable exporters, as well as coffee growers, with tailor made courses to prepare them for GLOBAL GAP audits. Real IPM will not be involved in auditing itself as this is a conflict of interest, not acceptable to the GLOBAL GAP Committee. Exporters should ensure that they are not receiving pre-audit 'training' or 'consultancy' from the same company, which will be undertaking their audit as this could invalidate the outcome of the audit. If in doubt, consult GLOBAL GAP.
What is GLOBAL GAP?
These are some of the key points:
• The document defines minimum standards that may be exceeded by some retailers and growers.
• GLOBALGAP recognises the significant progress made already in developing and implementing best-practice agricultural systems.
• The adoption of Integrated Pest Management is seen as essential.
• GLOBALGAP supports the principles of HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points).
• All organisations involved in the food production chain must accept their share of the tasks and responsibilities to ensure that GAP is fully implemented and supported.
• All growers must demonstrate their compliance with national and international law.
• All growers should be able to demonstrate their commitment to:
* maintaining consumer confidence in food quality and safety;
* minimising the detrimental impact on the environment, whilst conserving nature and wildlife;
* reducing the use of agrochemicals;
* improving the efficiency of natural resource use; and
* ensuring a responsible attitude towards worker health and safety.
• The GLOBALGAP protocol is the normative document (that is, establishes the norm) for certification.
• Growers receive their GLOBALGAP approval through independent verification from a verification body approved by GLOBALGAP. |
