Regulatory  Inspection Perpetration

When you are just starting a food business or extending your operations to cover a new commodity you have an advantage–you know a public health inspector/investigator will review your operation. FDA, USDA, State, and local officials will be interested in the quality and construction of your processing, packaging, and storage spaces. Many commodities regulated by FDA require that someone knowable in food safety and preventive controls design and review your process. With few exceptions, the FDA doesn’t require that this person is on site at all times, or even be an employee.

Many companies find it advantageous to employ a consultant during the critical planning phase to ensure that the facility, processes, and employee practices, address foreseeable risks and that the facility is sanitary. Consultants with regulatory experience, like those here at QCS, can also accompany regulators and your personnel during the maiden facility inspection. Having a consultant in your corner can help speed the process along by facilitating communication about how the programs and practices utilized meet statutory requirements.   

Voluntarily Programs

ISO 9001, FSSC 2200, BRC, and SQF provide manufacturers an opportunity to get a deeper understanding of their capabilities. After Walmart moved to require all suppliers to obtain certification under a GFSI scheme they reduced their annual number of recalls by a third! Customers demand accountability and the success of GFSI schemes like SQF ensure that it will be a prerequisite for market access for the foreseeable future.