Interstate Cold Storage (ICS), a leading provider of cold storage warehousing, has announced that its Columbus II facility has achieved Safe Quality Food (SQF) certification, a globally recognized food safety standard administered by the Safe Quality Food Institute (SQFI).

The SQF certification signifies the facility meets rigorous international benchmarks for food safety and quality management systems, specifically tailored for food storage and distribution operations. ICS received an “Excellent” rating, reflecting ICS’ commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence.

“Everyone at Interstate Cold Storage is delighted to receive not only SQF certification but an excellent rating as well,” says ICS SQF Practitioner Megan Beachler. “This shows we’re committed to upholding the highest standards for food safety. It also shows our commitment to quality and dedication to meet and exceed our customer and industry standards.”

The audit, conducted in February 2025, examined every aspect of the Columbus facility’s food safety management system, including risk mitigation, sanitation, traceability, training, pest control, and temperature monitoring.

Beachler says, “This was a complete team effort. Everyone at the facility was incredibly committed to making sure we’d have the best outcome, and it was rewarding not only to receive the award but also to work together toward a common goal.”

The Columbus II facility is one of five Interstate Cold Storage locations across Ohio and Indiana. Each facility offers a wide range of cold storage warehousing solutions and a variety of services, including temporary storage, quick-freezing, space-guarantee programs, and rail access.