BRCGS Global Standard Gluten-Free Issue 4 publication

Issue 4 now published

BRCGS Global Standard Gluten-Free Issue 4 was published on 05 February 2024, and is available for download from the BRCGS Store or Participate. Issue 4 audits will commence in August 2024 to allow time to prepare for the transition.

The result of a detailed and inclusive revision process, Issue 4 presents a strengthened and robust standard that will deliver greater assurance and value to all stakeholders. First published in 2011, there has been a year-on-year increase in the recognition of the Standard, which has seen significant growth in the UK and Europe. The Standard is globally applicable and now has certified sites in 34 countries across the world.

The rigour of BRCGS Gluten-free certification has won the endorsement of a broad network of national and regional associations in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. This allows certificated sites to use the on-pack association trademarks with the highest consumer recognition in their market, such as the ‘Beyond Celiac’ trademark in the USA, the Celiac Canada (CCA) trademark in Canada, and the Acelmex gluten-free trademark in Mexico and Latin America.

Watch the Issue 4 Launch Webinar

New for Issue 4

BRCGS has forged a strategic partnership with the Association of European Coeliac Societies (AOECS). Together, they have benchmarked against the AOECS Standard and innovatively developed an additional Section 8 to the BRCGS Gluten-Free Standard. This collaborative effort empowers certified sites and brands that source from them to display the AOECS’s Crossed Grain symbol on their packaging. This symbol is the most recognized gluten-free emblem across Europe and its neighbouring economies, signifying adherence to stringent gluten-free standards.

Find out more in our latest webinar with AOECS - A deep dive in Section 8.

Other key changes in Issue 4 include the addition of non-conformity grading, a new section on labelling and pack control, and an extension of scope to include outsourced processing. Changes can also be expected which are designed to simplify the process and provide clarity.

Support and guidance

To help sites with the transition to Issue 4, supporting publications and guidance are being prepared, and Issue 4 training courses are anticipated to be available in Spring 2024.

Explore the topic of gluten-free certification in our latest blog series

Hear from key stakeholders as we celebrate the launch of Issue 4!

Siarl Siviyer Dixon
Certification Manager
AIB International
Technical Working Group Member

Alessio Lelario
Global Food Center of
Excellence Director, Intertek
Technical Working Group Member

Shaun Cox
Head of Technical
UK Food Certification
Technical Working Group Member

Angela O'Donovan
Head of Programmes
BRCGS

Barry Meikle
Technical Manager - Food
BRCGS

“Congratulations to BRCGS on the launch of Issue 4! We have nothing but deep gratitude for BRCGS’ invaluable contribution to the growth and strengthening of the issue of safety in gluten-free food. The dedication and commitment BRCGS has shown in this area has had a significant impact on our community and, therefore, on the quality of life of those who must follow a gluten-free diet. Food safety is a primary concern for us and BRCGS has played a critical role in providing services that meet the highest gluten-free certification standards. We want to express our gratitude for the continued support from BRCGS in raising awareness about celiac disease and the needs of those living with this condition. The commitment to education and the dissemination of accurate information has been fundamental in raising awareness in society about the importance of offering safe and gluten-free options. Thank you for your invaluable contribution and for being a vital ally in promoting a safe gluten-free diet.”

“CCA is thrilled our long-lasting relationship with BRCGS is helping people with celiac disease and gluten-sensitivity around the world to find safe food that helps them belong and take part in a community that the rest of us take for granted”. Melissa continues, “Issue 4 is a welcome improvement, and it is testament to a leadership organization that constantly improves and doesn’t rest on its laurels”.

“CCA was there when this certification programme started over 15 years ago, with the Allergen Control Group at the time”, explains Secord. “We invested to develop the standard and identify 20 ppm as the safe threshold. It’s great to see this become a world class standard”.