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Dear Readers,
Building more sustainable supply chains for protein-rich animal feed – this has been a key focus for the branch for years. A key driver of these efforts is the increasing use of soy from more sustainable sources. With QS-Soyplus, the branch has achieved a great deal together in a short space of time: since its introduction in 2023, the standard has become firmly established and is now a vital component of the scheme. In this issue, you can find out more about the background and benefits.
A new service has been available since 1 July 2026: animal feed manufacturers and traders can indicate in the QS database that they produce and distribute animal feed in accordance with the ITW guidelines.
In addition, we address topics that crop up time and again in day-to-day work: An explanation of feed labelling provides practical guidance, and the assessment system used in QS audits is also worth a closer look – because there is more to it than just ‘A’ and ‘K.O.’.
Stay up to date with QS!
Best regards,
Yours sincerely,
Dr. Alexander Hinrichs
What matters to you:
ITW animal feed: New labels in the QS databaseAnimal feed manufacturers and traders can now indicate in the QS database that they supply animal feed in accordance with the requirements of the Initiative Tierwohl (ITW) for the ‘Frischluftstall’ and/or ‘Auslauf/Weide’ programmes. Two new labels are available for this purpose. By ticking a box in the QS database, companies can confirm that animal feed is produced or traded in accordance with these requirements and is delivered to order. At the same time, they consent to being listed as an ITW animal feed supplier in the QS database and that the information is going to be passed to the ITW.
Note: Ticking the box in the QS database is voluntary. Alternatively, compliance can still be shown via accompanying documents, certificates or certifications (e.g. VLOG). You can find all the information at a glance here. |
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Did you know?
QS-Soyplus: A big plus in sustainabilityQS-Soyplus makes the use of soy as a protein source in animal feed more sustainable – whilst ensuring a practical approach. QS developed the standard in collaboration with industry experts to create a uniform, robust solution supported by the entire supply chain. Since its introduction in 2023, QS-SoyPlus has helped to establish more sustainable supply chains and ensure a level playing field. The defined cultivation criteria go beyond the EU’s deforestation-free requirements and strengthen environmental, social and economic standards in soy cultivation in equal measure.
You can find all the information here or in our factsheet Short & Compact – with the six main benefits at a glance.
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Explanation on the labelling of feed as QS productsHow should animal feed be correctly labelled as QS products? The ‘Explanation on the labelling of animal feed as QS products’ provides support. It clearly summarises the key requirements and uses specific examples to show how QS products can be clearly identified – for instance, in shipping documents or on the packaging. It thus offers practical guidance and facilitates the implementation of the QS requirements. You will also find examples of the correct labelling of QS-Soyplus products and the use of supply chain models. Click here for the explanatory note. |
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Why does QS do that?
Between A and K.O.: Evaluating audits on a sliding scaleThe QS scheme is not just about ‘pass’ or ‘fail’. The evaluations in the audits are deliberately graded on a sliding scale: alongside A (compliant) and D or K.O. (non-compliant), there are also B and C evaluations. The reasoning behind this is that requirements are sometimes partially met, and not every nonconformity immediately jeopardises feed safety. C evaluations indicate a need for improvement – accompanied by clear corrective actions and deadlines. This allows companies to take targeted corrective action without immediately facing drastic consequences. A differentiated evaluation best reflects the reality of the audit, supports the further development of companies and embodies quality assurance in practice: identifying and rectifying errors. Further information on auditing can be found in the certification guideline. |
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