Standards

BRCGS Consumer Products Issue 4

The current BRCGS Consumer Products standard. Audits before April 2027 are still against Issue 4, so certification, training and audit support continue right up to the switch to Issue 5.

Talk to us about BRCGS CP Issue 4

At a glance

Launched
2016
Standards
Personal Care & Household; General Merchandise
Levels
Foundation and Higher
Last Issue 4 audits
Before April 2027

What it is

BRCGS Consumer Products Issue 4 is the global standard for non-food consumer product manufacturers, split into two standards: Personal Care & Household, and General Merchandise. Sites are certificated at Foundation or Higher level. Retailers and brand owners use it to approve suppliers.

Issue 4 until April 2027

Any certification audit carried out before April 2027 is an Issue 4 audit, and the certificate stays valid for the period stated on it. From April 2027 all audits are against Issue 5. If your audit is due in the next few months, your focus is a strong Issue 4 result; if it is later, plan your Issue 5 transition alongside it.

What auditors look for

  • Senior management commitment and a product safety and quality culture plan
  • Product risk assessment and the controls it identifies
  • The quality management system: documents, records, internal audits, CAPA, traceability and recall
  • Site standards, product inspection, process control and personnel

How Cornerstone Helps

BRCGS CP Issue 4: Software, Consultancy, Auditing and Training

Software

Run your whole Issue 4 system in Cornerstone: risk assessments, documents, internal audits, CAPA, traceability tests and training records.

From £775 a month + VAT, unlimited users

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Consultancy

System design, pre-audit gap assessments and support through to certification, from an approved BRCGS training partner.

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Audit & Inspection

Independent internal audits against Issue 4 so you know where you stand before the certification body arrives.

From £750 per day

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Training

BRCGS-approved courses: Understanding the Requirements, Auditor and Lead Auditor.

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Related services: BRCGS Consumer Products Consultation · Independent Auditing & Verification Services

Courses & Products

Related Courses and Products

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my next audit Issue 4 or Issue 5?

Compare your audit due date with April 2027. Before April 2027 it is Issue 4; from April 2027 it is Issue 5.

Is it still worth training on Issue 4?

Yes, if your next audit is before April 2027. Much of the content also carries into Issue 5.

What is the difference between Foundation and Higher level?

Under Issue 4, Higher level includes additional requirements. Issue 5 removes the two levels and has one level of achievement.

Book a Consultation Call

Tell us where you are with your certification and we will arrange a call to talk it through.

Or call +44 7801 393 598.

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