Last Updated on November 28, 2025 by Melissa Lazaro

BRC V9 Audit Types Explained & Why This Matters

When companies start preparing for BRC V9, one of the first questions they ask me is: “Should we go for an announced audit or an unannounced one?” And to be honest, the answer isn’t the same for everyone.

After working with sites going through both formats—small bakeries, high-volume ready-meal plants, large beverage facilities—I’ve noticed a pattern: success isn’t based on which audit format you choose, but on how embedded your food-safety culture and systems are.

If you’re reading this, you probably want clarity on the differences, the risks, the benefits, and how to prepare in a way that feels controlled—not chaotic. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of how both audit types work under BRC V9, how retailers view them, and how to build readiness so you’re confident either way.

Announced Audit Overview – Requirements, Timeline & Expectations

An announced audit is exactly what it sounds like—you know the date in advance. Most companies choose this format when they’re early in their BRC journey, implementing major upgrades, or still developing a strong food-safety culture.

Here’s what works well with announced audits:

• You can align training, housekeeping, and documentation reviews.
• Key staff can be scheduled and available.
• You can complete final internal audits and mock recalls ahead of time.

But there’s a trap many companies fall into: polishing the system for the audit window rather than embedding it into day-to-day operations.

One processor I supported had spotless production lines the week before the audit… but during surveillance six months later, the auditor found poorly documented allergen handling. Why? Because compliance wasn’t embedded—it was rehearsed.

Pro tip: Build a compliance calendar instead of a one-off pre-audit sprint. It protects your score and reduces stress.

Unannounced Audit Overview – Rules, Scoring & Eligibility

Unannounced audits are becoming more common, especially when retailers push for stronger transparency and operational discipline.

Here’s the reality: unannounced audits are not harder—they simply reveal whether the site operates the same every day, not just during audit week.

This type suits businesses with:

• Mature food-safety systems
• Strong housekeeping routines
• Trained deputies (not just one QA hero)
• Consistent record-keeping—not “catch-up paperwork”

One facility I worked with used monthly mini-audits across all shifts. The first month was rough—missing CCP logs, incomplete CCP sticker checks, and supplier approval gaps. But within six months, employees took ownership. Their unannounced audit ended up smoother than their previous announced one because nothing needed staging.

Common mistake: thinking frontline teams will “remember what to do when the auditor comes.” Training isn’t enough—habits win unannounced audits.

Announced vs Unannounced Audit Comparison – Choosing What Fits Your Business

When teams ask, “Which one should we choose?” I usually ask three questions:

1. Are your compliance habits consistent across all shifts—even on weekends?
2. Do your records tell the same story every day?
3. Do retailers or major customers expect unannounced audits?

Announced audits give structure and predictability. Unannounced audits build credibility, especially in sectors like ready-to-eat food, dairy, and high-risk protein.

A helpful way to look at it:

Factor	Announced	Unannounced
Stress level	High before audit, lower after	Low daily, higher during surprise
Perception	Standard compliance	Strong culture and maturity
Readiness requirement	Good systems	Everyday audit-ready behavior

Pro tip: If you’re new to BRC, start with announced. When your systems mature, transitioning to unannounced improves trust and reputation.

Preparing for Any Audit Type – Playbook, Records & Real-World Readiness

Regardless of which format you choose, your readiness should feel predictable—not last-minute.

Here’s the baseline routine that works across all sectors:

Weekly:

• GMP walk-throughs
• CCP and allergen controls checks
• Internal non-conformity updates
• Action follow-ups

Monthly:

• Mock traceability test
• Document review
• Maintenance and calibration spot checks

Quarterly:

• Internal audit
• Management review updates
• Supplier approval verification

One bakery I worked with implemented a “10-minute shift reset checklist” for operators. It cut audit findings by half because controls were maintained—not repaired during audit season.

Cultural Readiness – Making Compliance the Default State

Documentation gets you through an audit.

Culture gets you through an unannounced one.

Strong BRC facilities don’t rely on one superstar QA manager—they build systems where responsibilities are shared, understood, and practiced.

A site I supported in frozen produce had a simple rule: if you wouldn’t want the auditor to see it, fix it—not hide it. That mindset changed everything—from labeling accuracy to glass-and-plastic inspections.

Pitfall to avoid: treating compliance like a project. It’s a rhythm.

FAQs – Announced vs Unannounced BRC V9 Audit

Can we switch between announced and unannounced later?
Yes. Most certification bodies allow it during renewal cycles—but check your scheme rules and customer requirements first.

Do unannounced audits affect scoring?
Not directly. But unannounced audits often reflect stronger operational discipline, which can improve outcomes naturally.

How do we prepare teams without stressing them?
Train small, consistent habits. Confidence builds from familiarity—not fear.

Conclusion – Your Next Step Toward a Confident BRC V9 Audit

Whether you choose an announced or unannounced audit, the goal is the same: a food-safe, consistent, well-managed operation. The difference is simply timing and expectations.

With the right systems and mindset, both routes are achievable—and neither has to feel overwhelming. I’ve seen teams transform their audit experience dramatically just by building routine readiness and empowering staff.

If you’re ready for the next step, choose one of the following depending on where you are in your journey:

• Download the audit preparation checklist
• Book a readiness consultation
• Train your team using an internal audit workshop

You’ve already started preparing just by understanding the difference—now it’s about putting structure behind it.