Getting BQWV certified is more straightforward than you might think.
Certification is open to all wild venison producers and processors in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The assessment process is structured, well-supported, and typically takes between four and eight weeks from application to certificate. If you already follow best practice, certification formalises the standards you are already working to.
The BQWV assessment process is the same regardless of the size of your operation. The difference is in how you are supported through it.
Route 1
Producers handling fewer than 300 carcasses per year
You apply via Intertek SAI Global, but you will be assessed through the BASC-run Group Scheme. A BASC assessor will be assigned to your application and will guide you through the process. The Producer Handbook contains all the templates and guidance you need to prepare.
Route 2
All Processors, & Producers handling more than 300 carcasses per year.
You will be assessed directly through Intertek SAI Global. An Intertek assessor will be assigned to your application.
The certification process, step by step
Here is what to expect from the moment you request an application pack through to receiving your certificate.
Step 1
Application submission
Request an application pack from Intertek SAI Global. Complete and return the form with details of your operation. Once submitted, your details are added to the system, and an invoice for certification fees is issued.
Producers in the Group Scheme:
Your application is still submitted via Intertek, but your assessor will be allocated through BASC.
Step 2
Assessor allocation
An assessor is allocated to your application based on the size of your operation. They will contact you directly to introduce themselves, answer any initial questions, and agree a date for your assessment visit.
Step 3
Preparing for your assessment
Use the pre-application checklist and the BQWV Producer Handbook to ensure your records, facilities, and documentation are in order before the assessor arrives. If you are unsure about any requirements, contact Intertek SAI Global or your BASC assessor before the assessment date.
Step 4
The assessment visit
The assessment covers two elements: a site tour of your larder and chiller facilities, and an office-based review of your documentation and record keeping. For most operations, the visit lasts between 2.5 and 4 hours. Larger sites with higher volumes of records may take longer. Any issues identified during the assessment will be discussed with you on the day, you will be given the chance to rectify any non-conformances, and you’ll receive a written summary of the findings.
Step 5
Certification review and approval
The certification team reviews the assessment report. If previously raised issues are rectified and no further issues are found, your BQWV certificate and certification mark are issued. You can then begin using the BQWV mark on your documentation and marketing materials, and your business will be listed in the certified members directory.
Step 6
Renewal
BQWV certification is valid for 12 months. You will be contacted by Intertek SAI Global six weeks before your certificate expires with details of your renewal and the renewal fee. Ongoing assessment visits are carried out every 18 months to ensure continued compliance with the standard.
Certification costs
All fees are set by Intertek SAI Global. Prices shown are exclusive of VAT. For a quote, please contact Intertek SAI Global.
Producer Scheme Fees
Fee (ex-VAT)
BASC Group Scheme (under 300 carcasses per year)
£119.20
Additional stalkers added to a BASC Group Scheme
£25.00
Producer Member - direct via Intertek (over 300 carcasses per year)
£571.60
Processor Scheme fees
Fee (ex-VAT)
BQWV Processor Standard
£626.60
Intertek SAI Global Safe and Legal including BQWV Processor Standard
£1,165.00
BRCGS and BQWV Processor combined scheme
Bespoke pricing - contact Intertek for details
All fees cover your assessment visit, certification, and the issuing of your certificate. Certification is valid for 12 months, and renewal fees apply annually.
If you are unsure which scheme applies to your operation, contact Intertek SAI Global before applying. They will confirm the right route and fee for your circumstances.
A few things worth knowing before you apply
Most applicants find the process straightforward, particularly if they are already following best practice. These are the most common issues, and how to avoid them.
Apply in good time
The process typically takes between four and eight weeks from application to certificate. If you have a target date in mind for example, a new supply contract starting, apply well in advance.
Get your records in order first
The most common reason for non-conformances is missing or incomplete documentation. Temperature logs, hygiene records, cull records, and your HACCP plan should all be up to date before your assessor visits. The pre-application checklist will tell you exactly what is needed.
Use the handbook
The Producer Handbook exists to make preparation straightforward. It contains templates for every record you will need, along with guidance on completing them correctly.
Non-conformances are not the end
If issues are identified during your assessment, you have 90 days to resolve them and submit evidence. Most non-conformances are administrative rather than fundamental, and most applicants achieve certification after addressing them.
Frequently asked questions
Does BQWV certification cover Scotland?
No. Scotland has its own equivalent scheme – Scottish Quality Wild Venison (SQWV). BQWV covers England, Wales, and Northern Ireland only.
How long does the process take?
From submitting your application to receiving your certificate, the process typically takes between four and eight weeks. This can vary depending on assessor availability and how quickly any issues identified during the assessment are resolved.
How long is certification valid for?
BQWV certification is valid for 12 months and must be renewed annually. Ongoing assessment visits are carried out every 18 months.
What happens if issues are identified during my assessment?
Any non-conformances will be discussed with you on the day of the assessment. You will receive a written summary and have 90 days to submit evidence that the issues have been resolved. Once confirmed by the certification team, your certificate is issued.
Can I be certified as both a producer and a processor?
Yes, you can have a combined audit for both processor and producer accreditation. Please contact SAI to receive a quote.
I handle fewer than 300 carcasses per year. Do I need to contact Intertek or BASC?
All applications are submitted through Intertek SAI Global regardless of your operation size. As a producer, if you handle fewer than 300 carcasses per year, you will be assessed through the BASC-run Group Scheme, but your starting point is still the Intertek application pack.
What does the BQWV mark allow me to do?
Once certified, you can use the BQWV certification mark on your documentation, packaging, and marketing materials. You will also be listed in the BQWV certified members directory, which is publicly searchable by buyers and processors.
Ready to take the next step?
Request your application pack from Intertek SAI Global to get started,
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