1. What is a PCQI, and why is it necessary for my facility?
A Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI) is a trained professional responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing a facility’s food safety to ensure compliance with the FDA’s Preventive Controls for Human Food rule.
Under this rule, every food manufacturing facility must have at least one PCQI who can identify food safety hazards and apply risk-based preventive controls. The FDA requires that a PCQI either:
- Successfully complete training equivalent to the curriculum recognized as adequate by the FDA, or
- Be otherwise qualified through relevant job experience to develop and apply a food safety system.
AIB International’s PCQI Online follows the standardized curriculum recognized by the FDA as adequate for PCQI training.
Developed by FSPCA Lead Instructors, it follows the most recent curriculum to provide learners with practical tools they can apply immediately. This ensures your team is prepared to meet regulatory requirements and support a culture of food safety.
2. What is AIB International’s PCQI Online 2.0?
PCQI Online 2.0 is the fully updated and enhanced edition of our 100% online, 20-hour training course. This new version features refreshed content, improved interactivity, and a more engaging learning experience, all designed to better equip Preventive Controls Qualified Individuals (PCQIs) to meet FSMA requirements with confidence.
Starting July 2025, all new participants will be enrolled in AIB’s PCQI Online 2.0. If you previously enrolled in AIB’s PCQI Online 1.2, you may be eligible for free access or a discounted upgrade, depending on your enrollment date.
3. Does PCQI training expire?
No. PCQI training does not expire because the FDA doesn’t issue or require an official “PCQI certification.” Instead, they evaluate whether an individual is qualified, either through approved training or relevant job experience.
However, food safety regulations evolve over time. That’s why ongoing training is important to keep your knowledge current. During FDA inspections, your Food Safety Plan, records, and staff competency will be reviewed. If gaps are identified, inspectors may recommend additional training, even if you've completed a course in the past.
4. How can I prepare for an FDA inspection?
To pass an FDA inspection, your facility must have:
- A PCQI-trained professional, or a professional with relevant job experience, responsible for overseeing your food safety plan
- Accurate and detailed record-keeping
- Employees trained to handle regulatory questions
- Compliance with Preventive Controls for Human Food regulations
Our PCQI Online course equips your team with the knowledge and tools to strengthen compliance, improve documentation, and confidently implement preventive controls.
5. Do foreign suppliers need to have a PCQI in their facilities?
Under FSMA, foreign suppliers that manufacture, process, pack, or hold food for human consumption in the U.S. are generally required to register with the FDA, and must comply with the same food safety regulations as U.S. facilities, including having a Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI).
Even when not explicitly required, having a PCQI-trained professional strengthens a supplier’s ability to meet customer and importer expectations, enhances regulatory readiness, and supports access to the U.S. market.
