With the globalizing economy, the sector with the most competition in the international market is the basic food sector. GLOBALGAP (formerly EUREPGAP) is recognized in the market as a key reference for Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) in the rapidly growing list of countries – now in more than 80 countries on every continent – by translating consumer needs into agricultural production.
GLOBALGAP is a private sector organization that sets voluntary standards for the certification of agricultural products around the world. The aim is to establish a standard for Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) regarding different crop practices that can adapt to the whole of global agriculture.
CERTIFICATION OPTIONS
1. Individual Certification (Option I):
Applies to production on behalf of a single manufacturer. The individual producer can be a natural or legal person. Once certified, the individual producer becomes the owner of the certificate.
2.Group Certification (Option II):
Producer unions, cooperatives, entrepreneurs and all producers forming groups are subject to this certification. The group producer must have a legal entity in which it identifies itself. The Group must have established and implemented a quality management system developed for Good Agricultural Practices. The producer group, as a legal institution, will be the owner of the certificate when the certification takes place.
Benefits of Good Agricultural Practices
1. Benefits to Manufacturers
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It is the reason why it is preferred in domestic and foreign markets.
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It ensures to be ahead in equal competition conditions.
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Provides qualified agreements with retailers.
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It enables the production of quality products.
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In the long run, it provides the opportunity to decrease production costs and thus increase profits.
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It ensures the safety and well-being of people working in production.
2. Benefits to Consumers
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It reduces the risks related to food safety and human health.
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It provides sufficient information about the origin of the product (traceability).
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It provides quality and reliability in the product.
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Consumers’ demands for food quality and safety are met with success.
3. Benefits to Retailers
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It provides a qualified agreement with the manufacturer.
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Eliminates concerns about public health and product reliability.
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With the consumer’s confidence in the product, an increase in demand is achieved.
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Due to its compliance with legal regulations, it allows the obstacles to disappear.
4. Benefits to the Environment
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Sustainable, environmentally responsible production, protection of natural life and biodiversity.
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Reducing the harmful effects of agriculture on the environment.
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• Implementation of a protective management plan.