GMP+ standard

Continually improve your business with a good manufacturing practice

In the modern business environment, food safety and product quality represent a priority for both manufacturers and consumers. The animal feed industry is facing increasingly strict requirements and market expectations, which imposes the need for the implementation of internationally recognized standards. The GMP+ standard has emerged as one of the most important solutions for companies that want to prove their commitment to quality, safety, and transparency in animal feed production.

The GMP+ standard does not represent only a regulatory requirement – it is a strategic commitment that opens doors to new markets, strengthens customer trust, and positions the company as a leader in the industry. For enterprises in Europe (EU) that strive for export markets or cooperation with international partners, GMP+ certification becomes a key differentiator.

What is the GMP+ standard

GMP+ (Good Manufacturing Practice Plus) is an internationally recognized standard developed by the Dutch organization GMP+ International. This standard defines the requirements for a food safety management system in the animal feed production chain, supplementing the basic principles of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) with additional requirements specific to this industry.

The standard covers the complete animal feed production chain, from primary raw materials to the final product. The GMP+ standard integrates the principles of the HACCP system (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) with requirements for quality, traceability, and transparency, thereby creating a comprehensive safety management system in the animal feed industry.

Unlike other food safety standards, GMP+ is specifically designed for the challenges and specificities of the livestock industry, including contamination risks, proper storage and handling of raw materials, as well as the control of undesirable substances.

Key benefits of the GMP+ standard

The implementation of the GMP+ standard brings multiple benefits to organizations:

• Increasing customer trust – The GMP+ certificate guarantees that products meet the highest safety standards, which directly affects brand perception and customer loyalty.
• Access to international markets – Many global buyers and distributors require GMP+ certification as a prerequisite for business cooperation, which makes this standard a key for export opportunities.
• Reducing operational risks – A systematic approach to the identification and control of hazards minimizes the risk of contamination, product recalls, and reputational crises.
• Improving process efficiency – Standardized processes and clear documentation reduce losses, improve productivity, and optimize resource utilization.
• Regulatory compliance – The GMP+ standard helps organizations meet numerous legal requirements, reducing the risk of inspection findings and sanctions.

Why the GMP+ standard is important

The animal feed industry plays a critical role in the entire food production chain. The safety and quality of animal feed directly affect animal health, and consequently the safety of products of animal origin intended for human consumption. Contaminated or poor-quality animal feed can lead to serious health problems in animals, economic losses, but also to the transfer of harmful substances into food for humans.

The GMP+ standard addresses these challenges through:

• A systematic approach to prevention – Identification and control of hazards before they lead to problems.
• Protection of public health – Ensuring that animal feed does not contain contaminants that could endanger the food production chain.
• Preservation of industry reputation – Proactive risk management protects not only individual companies but also the entire animal feed industry.
• Economic stability – Prevention of problems is far more economical than resolving crises, product recalls, or lawsuits.

Key principles of the GMP+ standard

The GMP+ standard rests on several fundamental principles:

• Risk analysis-based approach – Every organization must identify specific risks in its processes and implement appropriate control measures. This includes biological, chemical, and physical hazards.
• Traceability throughout the entire chain – The ability to track a product from raw material to the final user enables a quick reaction in case of problems and increases business transparency.
• Staff competence – Employees must be adequately trained and aware of their importance in maintaining product safety.
• Continuous improvement – The GMP+ standard is not a static requirement but requires constant evaluation and improvement of the system.
• Management responsibility – Top management must be actively involved in establishing, implementing, and maintaining the system.
• Documentation and records – Comprehensive documentation allows verification of compliance and facilitates the identification of areas for improvement.

Structure of the GMP+ standard

The GMP+ standard is organized through several key documents and modules:

• GMP+ certification schemes – Different schemes cover specific sectors of the animal feed industry, including production, trade, transport, and storage.
• Basic module (B) – Defines general requirements applied to all participants in the animal feed chain, including requirements for infrastructure, hygiene, personnel, and documentation.
• Sectoral modules – Supplement the basic module with specific requirements for certain types of activities or products.
• Document with requirements related to food safety – Details how to identify and control risks specific to animal feed.
• Implementation guidelines – A practical guide that helps organizations interpret and implement the requirements of the standard.

This modular structure enables flexibility and adaptation to the specificities of different organizations, while simultaneously ensuring consistency in the application of requirements.

Key concepts of the GMP+ standard

Understanding the key concepts of the GMP+ standard enables more efficient implementation:

• HACCP system – Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) is integrated into the GMP+ standard as a fundamental approach to food safety management.
• Control of undesirable substances – The standard regulates in detail the control of mycotoxins, dioxins, heavy metals, pesticides, and other contaminants that can endanger the safety of animal feed.
• Supplier management – Organizations must evaluate and monitor their suppliers to ensure that raw materials meet safety requirements.
• Early warning system – GMP+ International maintains a system that allows for the rapid exchange of information on identified risks among certified companies.
• Monitoring and measurement – Continuous tracking of critical process parameters and verification of the effectiveness of control measures.
• Calibration and equipment maintenance – Ensuring that equipment functions accurately and does not represent a source of contamination.

Areas of application of the GMP+ standard

The GMP+ standard is applicable to numerous activities in the animal feed chain:

• Animal feed production – Production of complete compound feeds, concentrates, premixes, and feed additives for animals.
• Trade in raw materials – Companies that trade in raw materials for animal feed production, including grains, proteins, minerals, and vitamins.
• Transport of animal feed – Carriers must ensure that transport does not lead to contamination or compromising of product quality.
• Storage – Adequate storage conditions are crucial for preserving the safety and quality of raw materials and final products.
• Production of additives and premixes – Specific requirements for manufacturers of micronutrients, enzymes, and other functional additives.
• Laboratories – Laboratories providing animal feed testing services can be certified according to the GMP+ standard.

Benefits of implementing the GMP+ standard

Organizations that implement the GMP+ standard achieve significant benefits:

• Competitive advantage – In a market where buyers increasingly demand safety guarantees, the GMP+ certificate represents a powerful marketing tool that differentiates your company from the competition.
• Reduction of non-quality costs – Prevention of problems reduces costs associated with rejected batches, product recalls, complaints, and loss of customers.
• Process optimization – A systematic approach to documenting and analyzing processes often reveals opportunities for saving energy, raw materials, and time.
• Strengthening corporate culture – Implementation of the standard involves the entire organization, strengthening awareness of safety and quality at all levels.
• Easier access to financing – Banks and investors often look more favorably upon certified companies because they represent a lower risk.
• Reducing the need for customer audits – Many buyers accept the GMP+ certificate instead of insisting on their own audits, which saves time and resources.

The implementation process of the GMP+ standard

Implementing the GMP+ standard requires a structured approach:

• Initial assessment of the situation – Analysis of the organization’s current state against the standard’s requirements identifies gaps that must be closed.
• Team formation – Appointing a project coordinator and a team responsible for implementation, with a clear definition of roles and responsibilities.
• Documentation development – Creating policies, procedures, work instructions, and forms that document how the organization meets the requirements of the standard.
• Staff training – All employees must be familiarized with GMP+ requirements and their roles in the system. Specific trainings are necessary for critical positions.
• HACCP system implementation – Hazard analysis, determining critical control points, establishing critical limits, monitoring procedures, and corrective actions.
• Infrastructure improvement – As needed, adapting facilities, equipment, and processes to meet the requirements of the standard.
• Internal audit – Before submitting a certification request, it is advisable to conduct an internal audit that simulates an official audit.
• Corrective actions – Resolving all nonconformities identified during the internal audit.

Certification process of the GMP+ standard

Official certification includes several phases:

• Selection of a certification body – GMP+ International accredits certification bodies that are authorized to issue GMP+ certificates. It is important to choose a reputable and experienced body.
• Submitting an application – Filling out an application and submitting basic documentation to the certification body.
• Preparation for audit – Final harmonization of the system, staff training, and preparation of evidence of implementation.
• Documentary audit – Review of documentation to verify that the system on paper meets the requirements of the standard.
• On-site audit – The certification body conducts a detailed review of the facility, processes, and records, and interviews staff to verify that the system truly functions as documented.
• Corrective actions – If nonconformities are identified, the organization must implement corrective actions within the agreed timeframe.
• Issuance of a certificate – Following the successful conclusion of the audit, the certification body issues a GMP+ certificate usually valid for three years.
• Surveillance audits – During the validity period of the certificate, annual surveillance audits are conducted to verify that the organization continues to meet requirements.

GMP+ certificate – characteristics and significance

The GMP+ certificate is an official document confirming that an organization meets the requirements of the GMP+ standard. The certificate contains key information:

• Identification of the certified organization – Full name, address, and scope of certification.
• Scope of certification – An exact description of activities covered by the certificate (e.g., “production of complete compound feeds for poultry nutrition”).
• Certificate number – A unique identifier that can be verified in the GMP+ International database.
• Date of issue and validity – The certificate is usually valid for three years, with regular surveillance audits.
• Information about the certification body – Name and logo of the accredited body that issued the certificate.

The GMP+ certificate is included in the public database of GMP+ International, which enables buyers and other interested parties to verify the authenticity of the certificate and the current status of the company.

Importance of the GMP+ certificate

The GMP+ certificate has multiple significance:

• Proof of compliance – The certificate is an independent third-party confirmation that the organization meets internationally recognized safety standards.
• Buyer requirement – Many global players in the animal feed industry and producers of human food require GMP+ certification from their suppliers.
• Access to sectoral programs – Numerous sectoral quality programs (e.g., in the dairy or poultry industry) require animal feed suppliers to be GMP+ certified.
• Regulatory credibility – Although GMP+ certification is not a legal obligation, regulatory bodies often view certified companies positively, which can reduce the frequency of inspections.
• Insurance and financing – A certificate can facilitate access to more favorable insurance or financial services.
• Corporate responsibility – Certification demonstrates the company’s commitment to socially responsible business and public health protection.

Price of the GMP+ standard

Costs related to GMP+ certification can be divided into several categories:

• Costs of consulting services – Hiring an experienced consultant can significantly accelerate the process and ensure that the standard is implemented effectively. These costs depend on the size of the organization, the complexity of the processes, and the current level of compliance.
• Certification costs – The fee to the certification body covers the documentary audit, on-site audit, certificate issuance, and surveillance audits. These costs vary depending on the size of the company, the number of locations, and the scope of certification.
• Internal costs – Organizations must invest their own resources into staff training, documentation development, possible infrastructure upgrades, and engaging an internal team.
• Maintenance costs – Annual surveillance audits, certificate renewal every three years, and continuous activities such as training and internal audits generate ongoing costs.

If you are interested in the price of the ISO 22000 standard, fill out the REQUEST FOR A QUOTE and our team will provide you with a personalized price for the ISO 22000 standard in the shortest possible time.

Based on your inquiry, you will receive:

• clear information about the price and duration of the process,
• an explanation of the steps for implementing the standard,
• expert support throughout the entire certification process.

Fill out the form and take the first step towards compliance with the ISO 22000 standard and business improvement.

European GMP+ certificate

In Europe (EU), a growing number of companies recognize the value of GMP+ certification. Organizations can obtain a GMP+ certificate by engaging internationally accredited certification bodies that operate in the European (EU) market.

The certification process in Europe (EU) is identical to the process in the rest of the world, which ensures that European GMP+ certificates have the same value and recognition as those issued in any other country. This is of crucial importance for export-oriented companies that must demonstrate compliance with international standards.

Mobes Group provides comprehensive support to EU companies on their path to GMP+ certification, from the initial assessment to the successful obtainment of the certificate. With a deep understanding of the local business context and international requirements, Mobes Group is an ideal partner for companies striving for excellence in the field of animal feed safety.

The GMP+ standard in Europe (EU) – legal framework and support

The animal feed sector in Europe (EU) is regulated by a legal framework that includes the General Food Law Regulation (EC) No 178/2002, the Animal Health Law, and numerous directives that define specific requirements for the production, trade, and control of animal feed.

The GMP+ standard is complementary to domestic legal requirements, but it goes a step further by introducing additional preventive measures and a systematic approach to risk management. Implementation of the GMP+ standard not only facilitates compliance with European (EU) legislation, but also positions the company for doing business on an international level.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Commission provide support to domestic companies through various programs and initiatives that can facilitate the certification process. Also, projects related to integration within the European Single Market strongly emphasize the importance of harmonization with international quality and safety standards.

EU companies that possess a GMP+ certificate achieve a competitive advantage both on the domestic market, as well as during export to global markets, neighboring countries, and beyond.

Maintaining the GMP+ certificate

Obtaining a GMP+ certificate is not the end of the road but the beginning of a continuous commitment to maintaining high standards:

• Annual surveillance audits – Certification bodies conduct regular checks to verify that the system continues to function effectively.
• Internal audits – It is advisable to conduct internal audits at least once a year in order to proactively identify and resolve nonconformities.
• Management review – Management must regularly review the performance of the system and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Continuous training – Staff must be regularly refreshed on the requirements of the standard, new risks, and changes in processes.
• Updating documentation – When processes change or new risks are identified, documentation must be updated.
• Tracking changes in the standard – GMP+ International periodically updates the requirements of the standard, and organizations must implement the changes within the prescribed deadlines.
• Participation in the GMP+ community – Active participation in early warning systems and the exchange of best practices within the GMP+ network.

Mobes Group provides continuous support to certified organizations through consulting services, training, and preparation for surveillance audits, ensuring that the certificate remains valid and that the system continues to deliver value.

Integration with other management systems

Many organizations implement multiple management systems simultaneously. The GMP+ standard can be efficiently integrated with:

• ISO 9001  standard (Quality Management System) – Many elements are compatible, and integration enables a holistic approach to quality.
• FSSC 22000 standard (Food Safety System Certification) – For companies that also operate in the field of human food production, the integration of these two standards can be a logical step.
• ISO 22000 standard (Food Safety Management System) – Both standards share the HACCP approach, which facilitates integration.
• ISO 14001 standard (Environmental Management System) – Integration enables a balanced approach to product safety and environmental protection.
• ISO 45001  standard (Occupational Health and Safety Management System) – Complementary systems that together ensure comprehensive protection.

The integration of different systems can reduce the duplication of efforts, simplify documentation, and optimize the resources required to maintain certificates. Mobes Group has experience in implementing integrated management systems and can provide expert support to organizations that want to maximize the efficiency of their systems.

Mobes Group – your partner for GMP+ certification

Mobes Group doo is a leading consulting firm in Europe (EU) specialized in the implementation of food safety standards and management systems. Headquartered in Europe (EU) and with a deep understanding of the local market, Mobes Group combines international expertise with local knowledge.

Experience and expertise – The Mobes Group team consists of experts with years of experience in the food industry and standard certification. Our expertise encompasses all aspects of the GMP+ standard, from the initial assessment to certificate maintenance.

Tailored approach – We understand that every organization has unique needs and challenges. Our approach is personalized, focused on the specific circumstances of your company and the development of solutions that bring real value.

Full support – Mobes Group follows clients through every phase of implementation:

• Initial assessment of the situation and gap analysis
• Development of an implementation plan
• Staff training at all levels
• Development of documentation adapted to your processes
• Preparation for the certification audit
• Support during the audit
• Continuous support after certification

Wide range of services – Besides the GMP+ standard, Mobes Group provides support in implementing other international standards such as FSSC 22000, ISO 9001, ISO 22000, and others, enabling an integrated approach to management systems.

Why choose Mobes Group?

Choosing the right partner for the path to GMP+ certification can significantly affect the success of the project. Here is why companies choose Mobes Group:

• Proven track record of success – Numerous companies in Europe (EU) and the region have been successfully certified with our support. Our experiences cover different sectors of the animal feed industry.
• Practical approach – We do not believe in universal solutions. Our approach is practical, focused on developing a system that truly works in your business environment, and not just on paper.
• Knowledge transfer – Our goal is not only for you to obtain a certificate, but also for your team to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for maintaining and continuously improving the system.
• Efficiency – We understand that time means money. Our structured approach minimizes the time needed for implementation without compromising on quality.
• Local availability – As a company headquartered in Europe (EU), we are easily accessible for meetings, training, and support, which is especially important during intensive phases of implementation.
• Long-term partnership – Our cooperation with clients does not end with the issuance of a certificate. We provide continuous support through system maintenance, preparation for surveillance audits, and consultations as needed.
• Transparency – From the first contact, we provide clear information about the process, time, and costs, with no hidden fees or surprises.

The most common challenges and how to overcome them

During the implementation of the GMP+ standard, organizations often face certain challenges:

• Resistance to change – Employees can be skeptical towards new procedures and documentation. Solution: Involving employees from the beginning, clear communication of benefits, and appropriate training are key to overcoming resistance.
• Lack of resources – Small and medium-sized companies often have limited resources for implementation. Solution: Careful planning and a phased approach can help adapt the implementation to available resources. Mobes Group can help in optimizing the process.
• Complexity of requirements – The GMP+ standard can seem complicated, especially for organizations without prior experience with management systems. Solution: Hiring an experienced consultant who can translate the requirements of the standard into practical, understandable steps.
• Documentation – Developing appropriate documentation often presents a challenge. Solution: Focusing on functionality instead of volume. Documentation must be practical and useful, not just fulfill formal requirements.
• Maintaining momentum – Implementation can lose priority amidst everyday operational demands. Solution: Clear commitment from management, defined deadlines, and regular tracking keep the project on the right track.
• HACCP implementation – Proper hazard analysis and determining critical control points require specific expertise. Solution: Training the internal team or hiring a consultant with experience in HACCP.

The future and the GMP+ standard

The GMP+ standard continues to evolve in order to respond to new challenges in the animal feed industry:

• Digitalization – Increasing implementation of digital tools for tracking traceability, monitoring critical parameters, and managing documentation. Blockchain technology can revolutionize the transparency of supply chains.
• Sustainability – Future versions of the standard will likely place greater emphasis on environmental sustainability, waste reduction, and the circular economy.
• New risks – The standard continuously adapts to new risks, including changes in climatic conditions, new contaminants, and the evolution of pathogens.
• Global harmonization – Strengthening cooperation between different certification schemes with the goal of simplifying requirements for companies operating globally.
• Transparency for consumers – The growing consumer demand for transparency could lead to the development of systems that allow consumers direct insight into certificates and audit results.

For companies implementing the GMP+ standard today, this means an investment that will remain relevant and valuable in the future, continuously providing a competitive advantage in a market that is becoming increasingly demanding.

How to Start?

If you want to introduce the GMP+ standard into your company, the process is simple:

• Contact Mobes Group – Contact page or send a request for a quote
• Initial Consultation – Our team will analyze your needs and current situation
• Tailored Plan – You will receive a detailed implementation plan tailored to your enterprise
• Implementation – With our support, you will carry out all necessary changes
• Certification – We will help you successfully go through the certification process

GMP+ standard

The GMP+ standard represents the gold standard for safety and quality in the animal feed industry. For companies in Europe (EU) striving for growth, export opportunities, and long-term sustainability, GMP+ certification is not an option – it is a strategic necessity.

The path to GMP+ certification may seem demanding, but with the right partner, it becomes a clear investment that brings measurable results through improved market access, strengthened customer trust, reduced risk, and operational excellence.

Your path to business excellence begins here. Contact Mobes Group today and discover how the GMP+ standard can improve your business.

Mobes Europe – Elite Consulting Services for ISO Standard Implementation & Certification

Email: info@mobes.eu