Global Feature: From Issue to Insight – GMP+ Scope

Issue
During GMP+ audits, we regularly find that the scope stated on a certificate no longer fully reflects the activities a company actually carries out.

For example, a company may not only produce feed but also purchase and trade feed products. Other activities may include providing storage services for third parties, organising transport, or arranging transportation through external service providers. These activities are not always included in the GMP+ scope.

For companies working with animal by-products and derived products, such as Category 3 materials, confusion also arises on a regular basis. The GMP+ scope describes the activities performed within the feed chain, whereas Category 3 status relates to the legal classification, origin, and permitted end use of the material.

During audits, these two concepts are sometimes mistakenly treated as the same thing.

Insight
The changes to the GMP+ scope structure and scope descriptions introduced in March 2026 provide a good opportunity to review your certification arrangements critically.

Ask yourself:

• Do you only produce products, or do you also purchase and trade them?
• Do you store only your own products or also products belonging to third parties?
• Do you carry out transport yourself, outsource it, or simply organise it?
• Have animal by-products been correctly assessed with regard to their status, intended use, and applicable legal requirements?
• Does the scope stated on your certificate still accurately reflect your actual activities?

A current and well-substantiated scope helps prevent discussions during audits, strengthens traceability, and clearly defines which activities are covered by GMP+ certification.

In summary

• GMP+ focuses on the activity performed within the feed chain.
• Category 3 relates to the legal status of the material.
• Regularly review whether both remain properly aligned.