Toll processors are highly valued for their expertise in handling a variety of materials across multiple industries. They offer valuable insights, provide guidance for challenging situations, and deliver solutions related to material moisture content, size distribution, and quality control.
But not all toll processors are equally effective and valuable. So, how can you differentiate between them when they all claim to be leaders, innovators, and full-service providers?
The key lies in evaluating their certifications. A toll processor that adheres to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and holds relevant certifications is an excellent indicator of their commitment to quality and reliability. This article serves as your guide to the certifications any reputable toll processor should possess. Here's what you need to know.
Here’s a quick explanation: GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) refers to a set of quality assurance guidelines developed and updated by the FDA, ensuring that food and pharmaceutical products are safe for human use and consumption.
When you see cGMP (with the “c”), it signifies "current" Good Manufacturing Practices, meaning that the standards have evolved over time. This is crucial because the FDA expects companies to continuously improve their processes by incorporating the latest technologies and techniques.
Both certifications mean that the products are pure (no errors or contaminations), and it also applies to the buildings/facilities, staff, equipment, raw materials, and production. Manufacturers choose the right software and processes for their needs and provide the internal systems to help with organization and accountability.
Known worldwide, cGMP certification shows a company’s commitment to using advanced equipment and technology to test and verify the final product—ensuring higher purity and the most up-to-date quality assurance.
When you choose a cGMP-certified toll processor, you’re choosing a partner that uses cutting-edge technology and follows strict protocols to guarantee quality, effectiveness, and safety.
FSMA (Food Safety Modernization Act)
Enacted in 2011, the FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) was designed to safeguard public health by strengthening the food safety system. Instead of reacting to foodborne illnesses, it emphasizes preventing them before they occur.
FSMA rules specify what actions must be taken at different points in the global supply chain to prevent contamination. Requirements for imported foods, inspections, transportation, and compliance timelines cover everything from written food safety plans and supply-chain programs to preventive controls and corrective actions.
There are 7 major rules under FSMA:
The FSMA brought a major shift in how the industry handles food safety, focusing on prevention over response. That’s why it’s so important to work with a toll processor that fully complies with these guidelines—giving you confidence that every safety procedure and preventive measure is in place.
The PCO (Pennsylvania Certified Organic), overseen by the USDA, certifies growers and processors of organic crops, wild crops, and livestock. Operating under the National Organic Program's regulations, the PCO ensures compliance with rules on production, handling, and labeling of organic products while helping businesses meet these standards.
As part of a toll processor’s quality management system, once an organic system plan is in place, the PCO conducts an onsite evaluation through a qualified organic inspector. To maintain certification, processors must update their plan annually and undergo an inspection.
PCO certification verifies that a toll processor adheres to organic food handling practices, supports environmental sustainability, and avoids toxic substances.
ISO 9001, the world’s leading quality management system, has issued over 1.1 million certificates globally. These internationally recognized standards show customers that a toll processor not only meets statutory and regulatory requirements but also prioritizes their best interests through effective quality management systems.
ISO 9001 is based on 7 key principles:
These principles all converge on what should be one of a business’s primary goals: always improving products, services, and operations. Implementing ISO 9001 enhances the experiences of customers, employees, and suppliers as well as increases a company’s productivity and profits.
For toll processors, the certification should outline how the business designs and carries out processing services for both wet and dry materials, covering processes such as media milling, dispersing, micronizing, classification, pulverizing, crushing, screening, blending, surface modification, heat treating, reacting, drying, and packaging.
ISO/IEC 17025 is the international standard for testing and calibration laboratories, ensuring technical competence and reliable, valid results. It supports a toll processor’s commitment to robust quality management systems, especially when precise measurements and consistent testing are critical.
The standard is based on principles such as:
Halal
The Arabic word for “permissible,” Halal means the product is acceptable in accordance with Islamic law. In other words, the certified product comes from an acceptable source, such as a cow or chicken slaughtered according to Islamic law. The concept of "halal" closely resembles the Hebrew term "kosher" (see below).
Toll processors want to meet the needs of the approximately 2 billion Muslims around the world (4 million in the U.S. and growing). Offering Halal-certified products helps build trust with Muslim consumers, assuring them that the company's products align with their cultural and religious values.
Halal certification includes 3 process steps:
Similar to Halal, the word “Kashrus,” from the Hebrew root kosher, means “suitable” or “pure,” which ensures the product is fit for consumption. The related religious laws include comprehensive legislation concerning foods that are permitted and forbidden.
For a product to be considered kosher, all its components must also meet kosher standards. This directly impacts toll processors, influencing the blending, milling, packaging, and other processes involving ingredients.
During kosher certification, a rabbinic agency verifies a product’s ingredients, the facility (an audit of all processes), and each step in production. All ingredients, derivatives, and tools/machinery must have no trace of non-kosher substances.
The kosher certified symbol assures consumers that the product and its production comply with Kosher Law requirements, backed by independent audits and international quality standards.
FSSC 22000
With over 7,600 certified facilities worldwide, FSSC 22000 is a Food Safety Management Systems certification that assures customers an organization has implemented an effective food safety plan and management system. Developed by ISO, it is based on the globally recognized quality management system ISO 9001 (see ISO 9001:2015 above).
FSSC 22000 sets requirements for integrated processes that minimize food safety hazards, assuring toll processing customers that safety management meets the standard. Recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), it helps control food safety risks and prevent costly, brand-damaging recalls, ensuring consumer protection throughout the food chain.
Discussing and researching these certifications with potential toll processors is a great way to not only choose the right partner but also lay the foundation for a long-term relationship.
Have questions about certifications or toll processors? Get in touch with CPS. We're ready to assist and provide the guidance you need!