FQAS progresses independent review of standards
A robust review of the Farm Quality Assurance Scheme (FQAS) standards is currently underway and continuing apace.
This routine review is carried out every three years to ensure that FQAS standards remain relevant, add value and are aligned with developments across the agri-food supply chain.
Standards are scrutinised by the FQAS Standard Setting Committee Standards Review Group which brings together representatives from all relevant stakeholder organisations plus independent technical and veterinary expertise to ensure that all the criteria referenced within the various standards are fit for purpose.
The group comprises of representation from, the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU), National Sheep Association (NSA), Northern Ireland Meat Exporters Association (NIMEA), College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), Northern Ireland Food Chain Certification (NIFCC), the Association of Veterinary Surgeons Practising in Northern Ireland (AVSPNI) and the Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC).
Commenting on the progress of the review process, Gillian Davis, LMC Head of Quality Assurance said: “Significant progress has been made to date, and we are on track to implement these updated standards on farm in 2027.
“The structured and independent nature of the review group provides producers, processors and consumers with absolute certainty that FQAS standards are proportionate, practical and meaningful. As part of the review methodology, the group assess each standard against four key questions:
- Does the standard add value to the supply chain?
- Is the standard fit for purpose?
- Is the standard auditable?
- Can the standard be evidenced better?
“Review group members consult their relevant organisations and once the process completes at this level, we then take the proposed standards through to the full Standard Setting Committee and FQAS Industry Board for final approval.
“Through this robust review we continue to deliver unwavering confidence in the quality of the beef and lamb produced under the Scheme in Northern Ireland. The process is expected to conclude in the coming months with any changes to standards then scheduled to be communicated to FQAS participants via normal channels.”