March 2/Ocean Spray Press Release -- Ocean Spray has achieved the highest attainable SQF (safe quality food) certification for food manufacturing and distribution, the only sweetened dried cranberry manufacturer to be awarded this distinction.  The company’s four manufacturing sites -- located in Markham, WA; Tomah, WI; Wisconsin Rapids, WI; and Middleboro, MA -- were awarded  SQF 2000 Code Level III certification by NSF International in recognition of their "comprehensive food safety and quality management systems."

To achieve this globally renowned certification, suppliers must complete and document a food quality assessment of their product and its associated processes. They must also identify the controls needed to ensure consistent food safety and quality levels, meet buyer product specifications and satisfy domestic and international regulatory requirements.

Mike Stamatakos, vice president Agricultural Supply and Development, Ocean Spray, commented, "As supply chains become increasingly complex, investing in food safety and quality assurance is crucial. Manufacturers expect suppliers to demonstrate evidence of strict food safety and quality management systems. Ocean Spray's sweetened dried cranberries have always been produced, processed, prepared and handled according to the highest possible standards.  Ocean Spray is the only sweetened dried cranberry manufacturer to have achieved this level of SQF certification, providing our customers with assurance of our stringent quality controls."

From the March 7, 2011, Prepared Foods E-dition