Implementation of Quality Systems for Protected Designation of Origin

Implementing these certification systems according to the UNE-EN 45011 (ISO/IEC 17065) standard was challenging because the clearly defined theory in the Certification System had to be adapted to the specific requirements of each product. Our consultants' expertise was crucial in achieving this goal.

Our advisory service assisted Regulatory Councils in implementing a UNE-EN 45011-compliant system tailored to their specific needs, offering:

• Comprehensive Audits: We assessed current certification processes and identified any gaps that needed to be addressed to meet UNE-EN 45011 requirements.
• Customized Implementation Plans: We created a detailed roadmap for the system's successful implementation, ensuring minimal disruption to the existing operations.
• Training and Support: We trained the staff and stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition and supported the ongoing maintenance of the certification system over time.
• Ongoing Monitoring and Improvement: After implementation, we offered continued support and monitoring services to ensure that the system remained effective and compliant with evolving regulations.

By implementing a UNE-EN 45011-compliant system (currently ISO 17065), Spanish regulatory Councils can effectively protect the value and reputation of their Denomination of Origin (DO) labels, ensuring that the products under their care continue to represent the highest standards of quality, traceability, and authenticity. These councils are responsible for ensuring that products bearing a DO label meet strict quality and production standards, thereby preserving the DO's reputation and value, both nationally and internationally.

What are the benefits of ISO 17065?

• Protecting Product Integrity: The DO label symbolizes quality, origin, and authenticity. By adopting the ISO 17065 standard, Regulatory Councils can ensure that only products that meet the DO requirements are certified, thereby protecting against counterfeit or substandard products.
• International Recognition: The ISO 17065 standard aligns with global certification norms, giving Spanish DO products a competitive edge in international markets. It ensures that the certification process adheres to international best practices, thereby increasing consumer trust and marketability abroad.
• Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Implementing this system ensures adherence to national and European food safety and product certification regulations, reducing legal disputes and strengthening the certification process.
• Reputation and Consumer Confidence: A standardized certification system enhances the DO's reputation and boosts consumer confidence. When consumers see a DO label backed by ISO 17065 certification, they know the product has passed stringent quality controls and follows traditional production methods.
• Traceability and Transparency: The ISO 17065 system enhances traceability throughout the production chain, ensuring all stages, from raw materials to the final product, meet defined standards. This transparency is essential for regulatory bodies and consumers, providing clear proof of quality and origin.

Spain is renowned for its diverse range of high-quality food and wine products, many of which are protected by DO labels. As international demand for these products continues to grow, having a robust certification system in place becomes increasingly important to guarantee that products meet the established standards. The ISO 17065 system provides a framework to ensure that Regulatory Councils maintain impartiality, transparency, and consistency in their certification processes.