Understanding MeSTI Certification: Elevate Your Food Business in Malaysia

Understanding MeSTI Certification: Elevate Your Food Business in Malaysia

In Malaysia, food safety is a critical concern for both consumers and businesses. One of the essential certifications that every food business should consider is the MeSTI certification, also known as Makanan Selamat Tanggungjawab Industri. This certification is particularly aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to ensure that their food products meet high safety and quality standards, thereby earning customer trust.

What is MeSTI?

MeSTI, or Makanan Selamat Tanggungjawab Industri, is a certification scheme in Malaysia designed to help food businesses maintain stringent food safety practices. This certification ensures that every aspect of food production, from sourcing raw materials to packaging and distribution, adheres to national food safety regulations. By achieving MeSTI certification, businesses can showcase their commitment to producing safe, high-quality food, which can significantly enhance their reputation and build consumer confidence.

Why MeSTI Certification Matters

  1. Essential for Market Access: MeSTI certification is often a prerequisite for selling food products in various retail outlets, including supermarkets and hypermarkets across Malaysia. Without this certification, businesses may find it challenging to reach a broader market.
  2. Foundation for Higher Standards: MeSTI lays the groundwork for more advanced certifications such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP), or ISO. It helps businesses establish basic food safety practices that can be further developed to meet these higher standards.
  3. Boosts Consumer Confidence: Displaying the MeSTI logo on your products signals to consumers that your food items are produced with safety and quality in mind. This can lead to increased customer loyalty and trust.

The MeSTI Certification Process

  1. Initial Assessment The certification journey begins with a site visit by SQC Penang. Our team will evaluate your production processes and assess your readiness for the certification. This step is crucial in identifying any areas that may need improvement before the formal audit.
  2. Documentation Preparation After the site visit, we will help you prepare all the necessary documentation required for the MeSTI application. These documents are submitted to the Ministry of Health for review, ensuring that all processes comply with national food safety standards.
  3. Pre-Audit Review Before the official audit, SQC Penang will conduct an internal review to ensure your team understands and implements the necessary changes. This pre-audit helps smooth out any issues, making sure your company is fully prepared for the final assessment.
  4. Final Audit Support During the official audit, our experts will be on-site to assist you. We provide guidance throughout the process, helping you respond to the auditors’ queries and ensuring that your company passes the audit successfully.
  5. Ongoing Support After you receive your MeSTI certification, SQC Penang continues to offer support. We provide maintenance services to help you uphold the certification standards, ensuring your business remains compliant over time.

Enhance Your Business with MeSTI Certification

Achieving MeSTI certification is not just about meeting legal requirements; it’s about positioning your business as a trusted provider of safe and quality food products. This certification can open doors to new markets, improve operational efficiency, and build a stronger brand reputation.

Get Started with SQC Penang

If you’re unsure where to begin, SQC Penang is here to help. We offer a free site visit to assess your needs and guide you through the certification process. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your food safety standards, we are just a click away to assist you.

Chat with us