Fees Policy
Fees for certification There are various factors taken into consideration when calculating the fees for Halal certification, especially for SMIIC and UAE/GSO. They are:
Number of HACCP Plans
The Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) system is fundamental for food safety. The number of HACCP plans in place affects the complexity of the certification audit. More plans typically indicate a broader product range or multiple production processes, which require additional audit time and resources.
Number of Full-Time Employees
The workforce size impacts audit scope and duration. Larger teams may involve more staff interviews, verification of training records, and observation of operational compliance, increasing the effort required for certification.
Product Category and Number of Product Types
Different product categories (e.g., meat, dairy, beverages, processed foods) have distinct Halal requirements. The greater the variety of products, the more extensive the audit needs to be, including ingredient verification, cross-contamination checks, and lab testing.
Number of Shifts
Facilities operating multiple shifts require auditors to assess procedures across all shifts to ensure consistent compliance. More shifts may extend audit duration and increase fees.
Number of Production Lines
Each production line represents a potential risk for cross-contamination and operational variance. Facilities with multiple lines require thorough examination of each line’s processes, cleaning protocols, and ingredient segregation practices.
Product Development
Ongoing or frequent product development introduces new ingredients, formulations, and processes. These changes must be reviewed for Halal compliance, adding complexity to the certification process.
Number of Operational PRPs (Prerequisite Programs)
PRPs, such as cleaning, maintenance, pest control, and supplier management programs, form the foundation of Halal and food safety systems. The more operational PRPs a facility has, the more comprehensive the audit review needs to be.
Plant / Facility Size and Infrastructure
Larger facilities with complex layouts, multiple storage areas, or specialized equipment require more audit resources and time. Infrastructure considerations include production capacity, storage practices, and segregation of Halal and non-Halal areas.
In-house Laboratory Testing
If the facility has its own laboratory for ingredient or product testing, auditors need to verify testing protocols, equipment calibration, and staff competency. In-house labs can affect both audit scope and fees.
Need for a Translator
For facilities where English is not the primary language, a translator may be required during the audit to ensure clear communication and accurate verification. This additional resource impacts the total certification cost.