The impartiality of conformity assessment bodies is an integral component of the food safety management system

Abstract

The article aims to consider in detail the principles and requirements for impartiality, its components, and the status of implementation of these requirements in the current state of conformity assessment in Ukraine for different types of conformity assessment bodies (CABs); involved in food safety management system; compliance with the requirements of impartiality in terms of managing the risks associated with impartiality. The article uses methods of theoretical, empirical-theoretical, and empirical research, including analysis of documentation. Expert assessments were used to determine the significance of individual elements. The importance of impartiality in the activities of CABs is substantiated and demonstrated. Received a list of mandatory and recommended impartiality requirements for the requirements of the received standards and identified factors that threaten impartiality. Practical recommendations for documenting the process of impartiality management developed. The article analyzed the completeness and sufficiency of possible documented evidence, identified the risks of impartiality, and developed a set of preventive measures to minimize the identified risks. The authors developed a methodology for managing impartiality, which combines the experience and experience of CABs in various fields. The research results allow the CAB to carry out and document lending sector activities following the standard's requirements.