In the food and beverage industry, there are two main types of quality control processes: CGMP and GMP. CGMP, or Current Good Manufacturing Practices, is a process that ensures food safety and product quality. GMP, or Good Manufacturing Practices, is a process that focuses on the production of safe and effective medical products. So what’s the difference between CGMP and GMP? Let’s take a closer look.
What is CGMP?
- CGMP stands for Current Good Manufacturing Practice and it is a set of regulations introduced by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure that various types of medical products manufactured, processed, and/or stored in the U.S. are safe for public consumption.
- CGMP focuses on improving product quality through manufacturing practices that help to prevent contamination and errors. CGMP standards demand more thorough documentation and record keeping, improved training, and hazard-proofed facilities in order to ensure the safety of products intended for human consumption.
- CGMP also covers areas such as validation of the processes used to make a product, proper labeling and packaging, staff qualifications, and environmental issues all with the goal of maintaining safety while working toward product consistency and quality. CGMP is an important factor in making sure consumers are using safe medical products when they need them most.
What is GMP?
- GMP, which stands for Good Manufacturing Practice, is a system of regulatory guidelines used in industries such as cosmetics, food production, and medicinal products. GMP originated in the United States in the 1960s and is now adopted worldwide by manufacturers who must comply with GMP regulations to ensure quality standards and safety.
- GMP practices focus on areas such as personal hygiene, document control, product testing, equipment maintenance, and training standards to guarantee the highest levels of product safety. Manufacturers who adhere to GMP are able to build confidence among their customers by ensuring that all products meet strict performance requirements.
- GMP also reduces waste, improves efficiency, and saves money across supply chains. GMP helps companies protect consumers from harm by creating a culture of quality and accountability across their entire production process.
Difference Between CGMP and GMP
CGMP and GMP are both quality management initiatives that aim to ensure the safety and efficacy of products within an industry.
- CGMP stands for Current Good Manufacturing Practice, where organizations have established a formal and structured system of processes, procedures, and documentation to build trust in their manufactured goods.
- GMP stands for Good Manufacturing Practice and helps companies establish control over all areas in that product quality could be affected such as materials procurement, machinery maintenance, product packaging, and more.
- CGMP focuses on preventive controls in order to maintain consistency within product manufacture while GMP stipulates detailed requirements to ensure the safety of products being used by consumers.
Both CGMP and GMP are essential for setting industry-wide standards for professionally-manufactured goods that result in high-quality products every single time.
Conclusion
CGMP certification is important for food processors to maintain a high level of quality in their products. GMP certification, while not as essential as CGMP, can also be beneficial to food processors and help protect both the processor and the consumer. If you are looking for ways to improve your food processing business, obtaining one or both of these certifications may be a good place to start.