The move means that the UK firm Westland remains the only bird food manufacturer to achieve accreditation from The British Retail Consortium.
Trade association the BRC provides certificates for manufacturers who can prove they implement best practice across their manufacturing processes. The BRC Global Standards are a leading global safety and quality certification programme, used throughout the world by over 17,000 certified suppliers in 90 countries

Earlier this month, Westland's Driffield facility was told that it had retained its 'A' grade status from the BRC for the fourth year.

The continued success follows a two-day annual audit of the firm's state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, which produces its Nature's Feast, Peckish and Bucktons brands. The facility was measured against a stringent set of criteria, covering everything from processes, hygiene and safety, to the full traceability of ingredients.

Westland general manager James Farnsworth said: "We are delighted to remain the only bird food manufacturer to achieve the BRC accreditation. The BRC is much more than just an accreditation for us. It's about creating a culture in which everyone in the company recognises the importance of product safety and the quality of our products.

"The status, which we have achieved at Grade 'A' for the fourth year running, acts as an assurance to our customers that all our products, have been produced safely by experienced and professional staff, to the highest standards, using the best ingredients.