Benchmarking results: ProTerra V5 and Ama Pastus Version 2016 – changes 2020 – 2
ProTerra has developed a benchmark of the ProTerra Standard V5 (PT V5) against the Ama Pastus Guidelines Version 2016 changes 2020 -2. The objective of the benchmark was to determine the additional effort required to obtain ProTerra V5 certification when holding a valid Ama Pastus certification. Table 1 summarises the additional verification required to achieve this objective.
An important assumption considered in this exercise was that Ama Pastus certified organisations are based in the EU and source raw materials exclusively from low-risk countries within the EU (please refer to the risk classification as set out under ProTerra Europa). This benchmarking also reflects that Ama Pastus applies only to Levels II and III (transport/dealers and processing industries). Separate benchmarking is necessary for Level I (farms), noting that some of the schemes approved under Ama Pastus have already been positively benchmarked against ProTerra V5 and that all align with FEFAC guidelines.
The Ama Pastus Guidelines set out a voluntary quality assurance system for on-site producers of feed material and compound feed, traders and warehouse keepers of feedstuff, as well as operators of mobile grinding and mixing plants and carriers of feedstuff. The Guidelines pursue the following objectives: higher quality, and greater safety and transparency in feedstuff production through compliance with more demanding requirements; creation of a uniform quality standard for feedstuff that is also recognised by international quality programmes; and more helpful guidance and greater safety for farmers within quality programmes when purchasing feedstuff. The Guidelines place an important focus on food/feed quality and hygiene, and are closely linked to HACCP practices, which represent a systematic preventive approach to food safety that identifies, evaluates, and controls biological, chemical, and physical hazards throughout the food production process.
ProTerra V5 certification, in turn, emphasises human rights and good labour practices, such as workplace safety, equal opportunities, and particular attention is paid to preventing child and forced labour; good agricultural practices regarding soil fertility, water management, and continuous efforts to reduce the use of fertilisers and pesticides; and deforestation, biodiversity, high conservation values, with a special focus on rigorous Non-GMO requirements.
Therefore, the two initiatives are considered complementary.
The ProTerra Foundation embraces mutual recognition of sustainability standards and believes that synergies help reduce the costs of standard implementation and certification, while reducing audit burden. In addition, best practices for sustainability are shared across sectors and countries, creating possibilities for opening new markets.
For more information, please contact us at info@proterrafoundation.org