BRCGS has published a new Position Statement (P708) for Packaging Materials Issue 7, introducing updates to align the standard with the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) Benchmarking Requirements 2024. The changes will apply to all Packaging Materials Issue 7 audits conducted from 10 August 2026.
The new position statement provides certified packaging manufacturers with a transition period to review and implement the updated requirements before they are assessed during certification audits.
BRCGS said the updates are part of its ongoing work to maintain alignment with the latest GFSI benchmarking requirements and evolving industry expectations. The organization has also released a short guidance video explaining the key changes introduced through Position Statement P708 and their practical implications for certified sites.
Packaging Materials Issue 7 is widely used by manufacturers producing packaging for the food and consumer goods industries. Compliance with the standard helps demonstrate that packaging materials are produced under robust quality, safety and hygiene management systems.
The latest update is expected to be particularly relevant for packaging suppliers serving supermarket own-brand products and major FMCG manufacturers, where BRCGS certification is commonly specified within supplier approval programmes.
Companies holding Packaging Materials Issue 7 certification are encouraged to review the new position statement before the effective date to ensure internal procedures and documentation remain compliant ahead of future audits.
What happens next?
From 10 August 2026, certification bodies conducting Packaging Materials Issue 7 audits will assess sites against the updated Position Statement P708 requirements. Certified packaging manufacturers are expected to use the transition period to implement any necessary changes before their next scheduled audit.
Editor’s Note: This article is based on information published by BRCGS regarding the release of Position Statement P708 for Packaging Materials Issue 7, including the announced updates, implementation timeline, and supporting guidance materials. Additional background on the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) Benchmarking Requirements 2024 is referenced to explain the purpose of the changes.
