Sanders Attains Globally Recognized SQF Level 3 Certification

Clinton Township, Mich., August 28, 2015 – Sanders and Morley Candy Makers announced today that it recently received Safe Quality Food (SQF) Level 3 Certification, which is a renowned certification program recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI).

SQF 2000 Level 3 certification requires the most comprehensive implementation of safety and quality management systems, and is the highest level of certification awarded by the Safe Quality Food Institute (SQFI).

Sanders was one of the first mid-sized confectionery companies to earn SQF Level 2 Certification. It now becomes one of the few U.S. confectionery manufacturers of its size to attain SQF Level 3 certification, and an Excellent audit rating.

“Most confectionery suppliers of our size find themselves unable to reach SQF Level 3 certification due to its stringent requirements,” said Andrew Bender, Sanders & Morley Candy Makers Director of Quality Assurance. “Our long standing commitment to providing customers with safe, gourmet quality products while embracing new technology and the best manufacturing practices proved instrumental in helping us reach this goal.”

SQF Level 3 is the most rigorous certification awarded by SQFI. To receive designation as a SQF Level 3 certified supplier, Sanders & Morley Candy Makers had to complete several requirements:

• Maintain the highest level, sustainable Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs);
• Further develop and follow a Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) program
• Implement a food quality risk assessment and quality control plan;
• Provide continuous training for all employees on SQF programs and requirements;
• Adhere to all regulatory and product traceability requirements;
• Undergo regular 3rd party audits to ensure compliance with every aspect of the SQF program.

“Attaining SQF Level 3 certification demonstrates our dedication to employing the latest best practices and technologies to help us consistently deliver premium products to customers,” said Mike Koch, Vice President of Sanders & Morley Candy Makers. “We’re proud of our team for the hard work and dedication shown as we worked to earn, and now maintain this globally recognized certification.”