The food and beverage (F&B) industry includes all companies involved in processing raw food materials, as well as those packaging and distributing them. This includes fresh, prepared foods as well as packaged foods, and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. 

The food and beverage industry is divided into two major segments, which are the production and the distribution of edible goods. The first group, production, includes the processing of meats and cheeses and the creation of soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, packaged foods, and other modified foods. Any product meant for human consumption, aside from pharmaceuticals, passes through this sector. Production also covers the processing of meats, cheeses and packaged foods, dairy and alcoholic beverages. The production sector excludes foods and fresh produce that are directly produced via farming, as these fall under agriculture. 

The manufacture and processing of food and beverages create substantial risks of fire and toxic gas exposure. Many gases are used for baking, processing and refrigerating foods. These gases can be highly hazardous – either toxic, flammable, or both. 

A robust and well-managed food chain is essential to the health and well-being of all consumers and is fundamental to social and economic stability. This makes food safety a critical issue that must be managed effectively throughout the food chain, from farm to fork.

The consequences of food-borne illness can be devastating, both for the consumer and for retailers and other organizations in the supply chain. Failing to meet industry standards for food safety can result in prosecution, product recall, lost opportunities and negative publicity. In addition to food safety, the global food chain has significant impact on the environment and on the health and safety of its employees.

To meet obligations to the public and stay competitive, food and beverage companies throughout the food chain must meet high expectations for quality and safety. Certification to food and beverage industry standards can help organizations maintain legal compliance, satisfy customers, improve their brand reputation and more.