Just having good systems isn’t enough anymore. If you’re going for BRCGS certification for paper-based packaging, the audit isn’t just about what’s written in your SOPs. It’s about what’s actually happening on your factory floor, when no one’s looking. Auditors will ask questions that go deeper than surface-level checks. They want to know if your team really understands hygiene, traceability, and product safety, not just follows orders.
In this blog, we’ll show you real audit questions asked at Indian paper packaging plants, so you can walk in confident and ready for anything.
What do auditors look for during a BRCGS certification for paper-based packaging?
It begins with the basics: traceability, hygiene, contamination control, and staff knowledge. Auditors will test your practical systems, not just what’s written in your manuals. You’ll encounter questions like:
- How is each batch tracked from supplier to customer?
- What measures are in place to prevent foreign body contamination?
- Can your operators describe critical control points without referring to notes?
These questions aren’t traps. They aim to reveal if your safety systems are actively practiced and not just recorded. Essentially, every part of your operation should reflect the principles of BRCGS compliance for paper packaging.
How deep is the risk assessment for packaging plants?
Prepare for a detailed discussion on risk assessment for packaging plants, particularly regarding contamination risks, supplier vulnerabilities, and process controls. They may ask:
- How do you determine risk levels for each raw material?
- What steps do you take to prevent ink transfer, chemical exposure, or moisture damage?
- How often do you review or update these assessments?
If you used a generic template or left risk scores unsupported, they will notice. Your assessment should be specific to your site and based on real evidence.
What questions arise during BRCGS for paper packaging related to hygiene and sanitation?
Hygiene is more about practice than appearance. Auditors want to see proof that your cleaning procedures are effective and consistently applied, especially for paper-based food packaging safety. Typical questions include:
- Who checks cleaning records and how often?
- Are areas clearly defined to avoid cross-contamination?
- What is your process when a hygiene breach occurs?
Auditors will check your plant, take swabs, and inspect machines. Your team should be ready to explain how they clean and take care of all food-contact surfaces.
What’s the difference between BRCGS and ISO 22000 for paper-based packaging?
At many times, you will hear discussions on BRCGS vs ISO 22000 for paper-based food packaging. In actuality, the difference is mostly in control levels.
- ISO 22000 is about food safety management systems, which allows some flexibility.
- BRCGS certification for paper-based packaging is product-specific and has stricter hygiene and quality controls.
If your plant serves high-risk clients, especially in food and pharmaceuticals, BRCGS is often the expected standard.
What are the costs of BRCGS certification and timeline in the packaging industry?
The cost and time required for obtaining BRCGS certification for paper packaging may differ, but here are some rough numbers:
- India costs range from INR 2.5 lakhs to INR 6 lakhs, depending on the complexity and size of the facility.
- Depending on the start of the certification procedure, the timeline might range from three to six months.
- An important factor in the timeline is how good your documentation and team are in preparing companies to be certified.
If you have been an excellent performer and have documentation in place, certification would be relatively quick to attain. No documentation means it will take longer, but a good few days of preparations make time irrelevant.
Will floor operators be interviewed during the audit?
Yes, and their answers are important. Auditors will check if the training has led to understanding. They might ask:
- What do you do if you find foreign particles in the paper roll?
- How do you report pest activity near the storage area?
- What does this red tape on the floor signify?
The key is to be clear. Teams don’t need to quote the BRCGS manual, but they must show ownership of their roles. This is often where unprepared plants struggle in the BRCGS for paper packaging.
What document trails are usually inspected?
Expect detailed line-by-line reviews of:
- Incoming raw material logs and supplier checks
- Final product release records
- Internal audits and follow-up actions
- Corrective action reports with supporting evidence
- Cleaning and maintenance logs
The auditor may compare your BRCGS audit checklist with what happens on the floor. If your actual operations don’t match your records, it raises a red flag.
What should you anticipate during an audit of paper packaging materials?
Be prepared for a thorough, organized walkthrough with a strong focus on product safety. You’ll likely be asked:
- How do you distinguish food-contact packaging from non-food items?
- Are warehouse conditions appropriate for paper-based materials (humidity, pest control, etc.)?
- What is your policy regarding glass and hard plastic?
In short, consistency is essential. If you claim something in your procedures, the auditor should be able to observe it in action.
What’s the best way to prepare for a BRCGS audit for Paper-Based Packaging?
Mock audits are useful. So is a genuine internal gap analysis. However, empowering your team is a significant game-changer. Ensure that:
- Operators understand the purpose of procedures, not just the how-to
- Supervisors can confidently explain risk controls
- Records are reviewed before the auditor arrives
Success in the audit doesn’t come down to luck. It relies on clarity, discipline, and preparation, built over time.
Own Your BRCGS Journey with Legal4sure by Your Side
Achieving and maintaining BRCGS certification for paper-based packaging requires more than just passing an audit; it’s about being truly ready. Legal4sure can help you reach that goal with expert guidance, practical systems, and real support. Are you ready to approach your next audit confidently? Partner with Legal4sure and stay ahead.
