The aim of the QS protocol is to establish strict and controllable quality standards for all the stages in the value creation chain as a way to attain a transparent quality assurance system in all its phases.

Any foods with the QS stamp on them have been produced in accordance with the criteria established for each of the stages in production and processing and the consumer can verify quality assurance on all of these levels by means of the QS stamp, these being the initials of “QualitätsSicherung” (quality assurance in German).

Certification in this protocol is advisable if one is exporting to the German market, or interested in getting into this. Certification in this protocol both for production and for wholesalers or intermediaries may prove beneficial.

Kiwa España has extensive experience in certification of the QS system and a team of professionals who will help you to understand the steps required for obtaining this certification. To obtain further information about this system you can get in touch directly with us and consult web page www.q-s.de, where you can download all the guides and the application check list.

The stages in the process will vary depending on the phase in which the certification is required, production, wholesale or coordinator, starting in any event with registration in the QS database. Kiwa España will plan the audit depending on the scope and the result will be uploaded into the QS database.

In accordance with QS Protocol requisites, Kiwa España may grant QS Protocol Certification on the following levels: Status I, Status II or Status III, depending on the percentage and type of marks of the requisites. The assessment frequency will depend on the level obtained and the stage of registration.

Kiwa España cannot formally issue a QS certificate until the operator has formalised its contract with the QS Secretariat, and until the database confirms their “Eligibility to deliver”.