FSQA Snippets: Essential External Support

External support plays a vital role in helping businesses navigate complex regulations, adopt best practices, and maintain consumer trust, through continuous monitoring and improvement, for long-term success.

External support can assist with complex and evolving food safety regulations, provide expertise on specific hazards or testing methods and provide access to updated scientific research and technology.

External support can also assist with:

• Third-Party Certification (BRC/BRCGS, FSSC, etc.) - certification involves detailed audits covering hazard analysis, process controls, facility/equipment integrity, traceability, policies/procedures and associated documentation. The certification company often provides training and resources to help businesses prepare.

• Food Testing Laboratories – they can provide Microbiological, Chemical, Nutritional and Sensory assistance to assure regulatory and customer specifications are maintained.

• Industry Associations and Networks - food industry associations offer valuable resources such as training and best practice guidelines, as well as networking opportunities. Some examples include the American Society for Quality (ASQ), Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), International Association for Food Protection (IAFP), National Restaurant Association and Produce Marketing Association (PMA), to name a few.

• Consulting Firms and Food Safety Experts - can assist with the development/implementation of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) plans, audit/certification prep, internal audits/risk assessments, training programs, sanitation, and crisis management/recall planning.

• Technology/Digital Tools – these can greatly aid with compliance and digital record-keeping, temperature/humidity monitoring, traceability barcodes/RFID tags and data analytics for identifying trends and potential risks.  Management of your data in a professional manner can instill great confidence in your product with your customers and enhance your relationship with them.

• Collaborations with Academic and Research Institutions - partnerships with universities and research centers provide access to cutting-edge science and innovation.

Building strong external relationships enhances resilience and helps maintain compliance in an ever-changing environment.

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Steve