Freshcare officially released its Food Safety & Quality Standard Edition 5 (FSQ5) on 1 September 2026, introducing an updated and consolidated approach to food safety and quality assurance across Australia's fresh produce industry.
The new standard combines the existing Food Safety & Quality (FSQ4.2) and Supply Chain (SCS2) standards into one framework, with clearer requirements and a greater emphasis on risk management, food safety culture and biosecurity.
What's changed?
The key changes include:
- A single standard covering on-farm and supply chain activities.
- Improved structure and clearer compliance requirements.
- Strengthened food safety management systems and documented controls.
- Greater emphasis on risk assessments and preventative measures.
- Increased focus on food safety culture.
- Formal inclusion of biosecurity requirements.
For existing Freshcare-certified businesses, many current procedures and records will remain relevant. However, businesses should review their systems against FSQ5 to identify any additional requirements.
Important transition dates
- 1 September 2026: FSQ5 officially released.
- Late October 2026: Updated FSQ5 training scheduled to become available.
- 1 March 2027: New businesses must undertake initial certification audits to FSQ5. Existing businesses can commence FSQ5 recertification audits.
- 30 June 2027: Final date for audits against FSQ4.2 and SCS2.
- 1 July 2027: FSQ5 becomes mandatory for all Freshcare audits.
Existing FSQ4.2 and SCS2 certificates remain valid until their stated expiry dates.
What about training?
A management representative from each business must complete approved training relevant to FSQ5.
Businesses previously trained in FSQ4, FSQ4.1, FSQ4.2, SCS1 or SCS2 will generally require the FSQ5 Transition Training Module, while new participants and certain businesses with older training will require the full FSQ5 training course.
How can Cultiv8 help?
Cultiv8 Support Network can assist growers, packers and supply chain businesses with understanding the updated standard, identifying gaps, reviewing existing procedures and records, and preparing for their next audit.
Don't leave your transition until the last minute. Now is an ideal time to review your existing system and prepare for FSQ5.
For the official standard, supporting resources and further information:
View the Freshcare FSQ5 information
Need help applying FSQ5 to your operation?
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