Hi Lisa,
I think your consultant is mixing SQF up with BRC as they specifically require justification for not having a metal detector or similar detection equipment.
BRC Global Standard for Food:
4.10.3.1 Metal detection equipment shall be in place unless risk assessment demonstrates that this does not improve the protection of final products from metal contamination. Where metal detectors are not used justification shall be documented.
The absence of metal detection would only normally be based on the use of an alternative, more effective method of protection (e.g. use of X-ray, fine sieves or filtration of products).
I don't believe the link posted above is correct regarding IFS Food V6:
4.12 Risk of foreign material, metal, broken glass and wood
4.12.1 KO N° 6: Based on hazard analysis and assessment of associated risks, procedures shall be in place to avoid contamination with foreign material. Contaminated products shall be treated as non-conforming products.
SQF Code and Guidance Requirements:
11.7.6 Detection of Foreign Objects
11.7.6.1 The responsibility, methods and frequency for monitoring, maintaining, calibrating and using screens, sieves, filters or other technologies to remove or detect foreign matter shall be documented and implemented.
11.7.6.2 Metal detectors or other physical contaminant detection technologies shall be routinely monitored, validated and verified for operational effectiveness. The equipment shall be designed to isolate defective product and indicate when it is rejected.
11.7.6.3 Records shall be maintained of the inspection by foreign object detection devices, and their verification.
11.7.6 Implementation Guidance
What does it mean?
Foreign matter detectors can include metal detectors, x-ray, color sorters, screens, sieves and filters. They must be designed and installed to detect and/or trap foreign objects that have been identified in a detailed risk assessment. Their management, control, and calibration must be documented in procedures and work instructions which include responsibility and frequency.
As Parkz58 has posted you will be expected to have carried out appropriate risk assessment which demonstrates your controls are sufficient without the need for
metal detection. If you do have a
metal detector then it should be adequately controlled, calibrated, validated and verified.
Kind regards,
Tony