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CanadaGAP Certification for Fresh Produce

CanadaGAP certification verifies food safety practices for Canadian fresh produce operations, ensuring compliance with national and international standards.

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Who is it for?

CanadaGAP certification is designed for Canadian growers, packers, storage facilities, repackers, wholesalers, and brokers involved in the production, handling, or distribution of fresh fruits and vegetables. It applies to operations across the supply chain, including field, orchard, greenhouse, packinghouse, and distribution environments.

What is it and what it includes

CanadaGAP is a HACCP-based food safety certification program for the fresh produce industry. It covers Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), verifying that operations meet recognized standards for food safety.

Kiwa’s accredited audits include a review of growing, packing, storage, repacking, and wholesale processes. The service encompasses audit scheduling, auditor assignment, performance monitoring, audit reporting, and certificate issuance.

Benefits of the Service

  • Demonstrates compliance with national and GFSI-recognized food safety standards
  • Facilitates access to major retail and export markets
  • Enhances operational efficiency and traceability
  • Supports risk management and consumer confidence
  • Provides a structured pathway for continuous improvement
  • Recognized by international buyers and retail chains
  • Enables participation in addendum audits for specific retailer requirements 

Why Choose Kiwa

Kiwa is an accredited certification body with extensive experience in food safety and agricultural standards. The team offers professional, independent audits and responsive support throughout the certification process.

Kiwa’s global expertise and local presence ensure consistent, reliable service for Canadian produce operations. Clients benefit from clear guidance, timely reporting, and access to expanded technical resources, making Kiwa a trusted partner for CanadaGAP certification.

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Steps in the Process

    Application

    Submit your certification request or transfer form to Kiwa.

    Audit scheduling

    Kiwa assigns a qualified auditor and schedules the audit.

    On-site audit

    The auditor reviews your food safety practices and documentation.

    Report

    Receive a detailed report of the audit.

    Corrective actions

    Address any non-conformities identified during the audit.

    Certificate issuance

Applicable Norms & Regulations

  • CanadaGAP Food Safety Program (HACCP-based)
  • Good Agricultural Practices (GAP)
  • Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
  • GFSI Benchmarking Requirements
  • Addendum audits for retailer-specific standards (e.g., Costco, Pollinator Health)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who needs CanadaGAP certification?

Any Canadian operation involved in growing, handling, packing, storing, or distributing fresh produce that supplies major retailers or export markets should obtain CanadaGAP certification.

How long does the audit process take?

Audit reports are typically issued within several weeks following the audit, subject to successful closure of any corrective actions.

Is CanadaGAP certification recognized internationally?

Yes, CanadaGAP is recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), making it accepted by international buyers and retail chains.

What happens if non-conformities are found?

You will be required to address any non-conformities identified during the audit. Kiwa provides guidance and support to help you achieve compliance.

Can I add retailer-specific requirements to my audit?

Yes, Kiwa offers addendum audits for requirements such as the Costco Addendum.

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