Application form for RFoodSP

Thank you for your interest in becoming a Food Safety Principal. There are five steps to successful registration. 

Step 1: Are you already a member of IFST?

In order to apply for the Register of Food Safety Professionals (RFSP) you must already be a member of IFST. If you aren’t a member yet, please complete this short application form and we’ll process your membership as soon as possible. If you’re already a member then skip to step 2.

Please note that you can apply for both IFST membership and RFSP accreditation at the same time, so there’s no need to delay your next step.

Step 2: Complete your principal application form and attach your CV

Registered Food Safety Principal application form

Your CV should include a detailed explanation of your role and responsibilities during the last 3 years with an outline of any previous relevant experience. Please attach copies of your certificate(s) for all relevant qualifications listed in your CV AND your Advanced (level 4) HACCP certificate (or equivalent).

References will be required from two senior persons who are familiar with your work.  We will send a copy of your CV and competence report to your referees for corroboration.

Step 3: Complete your competence report

Competence Report form

Following our competency guidelines please complete this form. You should write roughly 100-150 words per competency. Your Competence Report should concentrate on the last three years unless you think that earlier linked career development is relevant.

Step 4: Submit your portfolio and pay your application fee

Please send your portfolio by email to our Membership Team or by post to

Institute of Food Science & Technology
5 Cambridge Court
210 Shepherds Bush Road
London W6 7NJ

For the current membership and registration fees please visit here. Please note that IFST membership is compulsory for anyone joining a professional register.

Step 5: Wait to hear back from our assessment panel

Your application will be assessed by our Panel of experienced Food Safety Professionals to see whether you have shown you have the experience and understanding to meet the competency framework.

The Panel will not normally interview applicants, but if necessary a member of the Panel may telephone you to seek clarification or further explanation on a specific aspect of your application.

Should you have any questions or need assistance in completing your application, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

We look forward to receiving your application. Good luck!