This course provides the essentials for understanding and implementing the SQF Code, Edition 9. The instructor tailors the class to participants’ specific needs, emphasizing real-world application of the Code in daily operations. Through a combination of instruction and interactive discussion, participants share experiences in a way not possible with online-only training. The class highlights how compliance with SQF can be achieved practically, documented effectively, and leveraged to build trust in your products and services.

As the official licensed Implementing SQF Systems course, delivered through our SQF Training Center, this program provides participants with the knowledge and skills to develop, align, and maintain an SQF food safety system. With a focus on continuous improvement, hands-on activities give attendees the opportunity to apply SQF requirements directly to their existing programs and build a strong culture of food safety.

The training concludes with a practice exam to prepare participants for the official online SQF Practitioner exam. A certificate of completion is awarded.

Who Should Attend

Individuals responsible for developing, verifying, maintaining, or supporting an SQF food safety system, including:

• SQF Practitioners
• Quality Managers
• Food Safety and Compliance Personnel
• Anyone seeking detailed knowledge of SQF systems for successful certification and ongoing maintenance

Prerequisites: It is recommended, but not mandatory, that participants have successfully completed a HACCP training course meeting the definition found in the Glossary of the SQF Food Safety Code.

Course Overview

Format, Date and Time:
This LIVE virtual class will be presented in English on:

• Thursday, October 16, 2025 from 9:00 am EST – 5:00 pm EST
• Friday, October 17, 2025 from 9:00 am EST – 5:00 pm EST

Course Length:
16 hours (delivered over 2 days).

Technical Requirements:

• Class is conducted via Zoom. A Zoom account is not required.
• Participants must have working camera and audio connections plus email access for workshop assignments.
• Cameras must remain on with each participant in view during all training presentations.

Materials:

• Course materials are provided in both hard copy and digital formats.
• Includes practice exam and certificate of completion.
• Individuals who register less than 2 weeks before the class are not guaranteed hard copy materials on time for class.

Cost
The cost for this course, including materials, is $765 USD per person. If three or more from the same company register for the same course, a 10% discount is applied.

Please note: Class participation is valid only for the person(s) registered. No other participants are permitted without a paid registration.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Improve or align existing food safety programs to reflect the requirements of the SQF Food Safety Code.
• Understand the interconnectedness of SQF programs and how each contributes to a robust SQF system.
• Outline clear actions to support and strengthen a culture of food safety.

Course Outline

• Welcome, Introductions, and Objectives
• Overview of SQF Code Edition 9
• Practitioner Roles and Responsibilities
• Building and Documenting Your SQF System
• Aligning Programs with the SQF Food Safety Code
• Practical Activities and Real-Life Applications
• Audit Readiness and Continuous Improvement
• Preparing for SQF Certification
• Practice Exam, Review, and Course Evaluation

Instructor

The instructor for this course is Sierra Deuber An additional instructor may be added depending on class size.

Cancellation Policy

• The cancellation fee is $50 plus costs of any books or materials that were shipped on the registrant’s behalf.
• If HCG cancels the class, all funds will be returned. If a client wishes to transfer to another course, it must be within 6 months.