SELF-REGULATORY PROGRAM

WHAT IS SAFJA’S SELF-REGULATORY PROGRAM?

SAFJA’s Self-Regulatory Program (SRP) is an initiative aimed at ensuring compliance and maintaining high standards within the juice industry by alerting, supporting, and assisting industry participants in adhering to relevant regulations.

This program is a voluntary service to industry participants, including both SAFJA members and non-members, at no cost to product owners. Including both SAFJA members and non-members in the
self-regulatory program is essential for fostering a comprehensive and inclusive approach to industry regulations.

HOW WE IMPLEMENT THE SRP

  1. Label Inspections: Thorough inspections of product labels to ensure they meet regulatory requirements.
  2. Industry Risk Testing: Testing for contaminants like patulin, ochratoxin and cadmium and processing indicators such as HMF to ensure product safety.
  3. Authenticity Analysis: Verifying the authenticity of juice products to prevent adulteration.

SAFJA implements an industry Code of Ethics; promotes extensive Total Quality Management Systems at individual companies; and has a Proficiency Testing program assessing proficiency of industry participants in meeting regulatory standards of laboratory analyses.

Results are communicated with Product Owners only. The aim is to educate, encourage, and ensure compliance with the juice regulations. Product Owners are always encouraged to consult their regulatory advisors regarding any potential discrepancies identified.

WHY IS THE SRP IMPORTANT?

Through this program, we ensure compliance with world-class regulations and implement industry initiatives to protect industry interests and consumer trust. It promotes transparency, accountability, and collaboration, ensuring product safety and reliability. SAFJA supports continuous improvement and ethical behaviour, reinforcing the integrity of South African juice products.

Members, retailers, and consumers can trust that comprehensive testing of fruit juice products ensures:

  • Consistent compliance by all role-players
  • A level playing field for producers
  • Product authenticity and the eradication of adulteration
  • Fair and informative labelling

“Self-regulation BY the industry FOR the industry – building consumer confidence.”