Q1: What is the difference between the USDA Process Verified Program (PVP) and the USDA Quality Assessment Program (QSA) Program?
A: Both the UDSA PVP and QSA Program are formats for companies to create a documented quality management system to address requirements that a company must develop, implement, and maintain to ensure product meets specified product requirements.
There are 4 main differences between these two programs; the differences are outlined below:
PVP | QSA Program |
Contains ALL ISO 9001:2000 Elements, plus USDA requirements. | Contain most ISO 9001:2000 Elements, plus USDA requirements. |
Audit a minimum of once per year. | Audited a minimum of twice per year. |
Freedom to develop individual claims including those outlined in QSA. | Limited to age, source, and NHTC claims. |
The PVP Shield and terminology can be used in marketing materials. | Currently, there is no shield available to use in marketing materials. |