PQS – Pork Quality System Certification
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What is PQS certification and what does it include?
The Pork Quality System (PQS) is a Polish recognized food quality system developed to ensure the production of high-quality pork. It covers all stages of the supply chain, from breeding and feeding to pre-slaughter, processing, and packaging. PQS standards focus on proper pig breeds, controlled feeding, animal welfare, and environmental protection. Certified participants receive a certificate and are authorized to use the PQS logo, confirming compliance with technical criteria and guaranteeing product quality and traceability
For whom is PQS certification relevant?
PQS certification is designed for pig breeders, pork producers, meat processors, and farmers involved in the pork supply chain. The system is open to all participants, including members and non-members of industry associations, who wish to demonstrate compliance with strict quality and traceability standards.
Benefits of PQS certification
- Guarantees high-quality pork with favorable culinary and processing properties.
- Ensures full traceability from farm to final product.
- Promotes ethical production, animal welfare, and environmental responsibility.
- Provides market differentiation with the PQS logo as a quality mark.
- Supports close cooperation between breeders, producers, and processors, enhancing economic strength and consumer trust.
- Enables production of premium processed meat products using PQS-certified raw materials.
Why choose Kiwa for your PQS certification?
Kiwa is an independent, accredited certification body with extensive experience in food quality systems. It offers a transparent, structured certification process, ensuring impartiality and confidentiality at every stage. Kiwa's experts support customers from the moment of application to annual supervision, and the company's global recognition gives confidence in the credibility and value of PQS certification.
Process steps
Registration
A manufacturer or processor applies to join the PQS system.
Documentation Review
Kiwa verifies the completeness and compliance of the documents submitted.
On-site inspection
An independent auditor visits the farm or plant to confirm that PQS requirements are met.
Certification decision
After positive verification, a certificate is issued for 12 months.
Annual supervision
Regular audits and self-inspection ensure that compliance is maintained and that the certificate is valid.
Applicable Standards and Regulations
PQS Technical Criteria and Certification Program
Pork Quality System - PQS (Polish)Polish food quality system regulations
Animal welfare and health laws
Environmental protection standards
FAQ on PQS certification
What is PQS certification?
PQS certification verifies that pork production meets strict quality, traceability, and animal welfare standards, ensuring premium products for consumers.
Who can apply for PQS certification?
Pig breeders, pork producers, meat processors, and farmers involved in the supply chain can apply, regardless of association membership.
What are the benefits of PQS certification?
Benefits include improved product quality, full traceability, ethical production, and market differentiation with the PQS logo.
How is traceability ensured in PQS?
The system uses identification methods for animals and carcasses, allowing tracking from farm to final product.
Is participation in PQS mandatory?
Participation is voluntary and open to all who meet the technical criteria and wish to demonstrate quality and compliance.