2-min read
Sourcing closer to the farm means better transparency, more specialized products, and more control – but you’re also taking on more risk. To mitigate risk, you’ll want to put in place standards and expectations so you don’t end up with a pre-production crisis.
The last thing you need is your copacker or head of production calling you at 6am because an ingredient smells funny and they can’t go into production.
Here are some tips on how to avoid a quality crisis:
1. Do your research. Before you start working with any farmer or processor, take the time to research their operations. Find out how they produce, store, and transport those ingredients, and what their quality control procedures are.
2. Set clear expectations. Don’t rely on your supplier’s protocols. You can add requirements to the product specifications and COA (Certificate of Analysis). This includes the physical, chemical, and microbiological standards that the ingredients must meet.
3. Get it in writing. Once you've agreed on the terms of your relationship with your supplier, be sure to get it in writing.
4. Inspect the ingredients. When you or your co-packer receives a shipment, be sure to inspect each lot. If you find any problems, don't hesitate to reject the shipment.
5. Store the ingredients properly.
Since we are coming into the summer months, here are some additional tips that are specific to tree nuts (like almonds):
· Make sure the Product Specification sheet includes physical, chemical, and microbiological standards.
· It’s worth it to pay for additional chemical testing at the processor (specifically FFA – free fatty acid). This is especially important in the summer with a supplier that does not have cold storage.
· Be aware of the factors that contribute to shelf life. Almonds should be stored at cool and dry conditions (<10°C/50°F and <65% relative humidity).
· Inspect each load of almonds by lot for appearance, flavor, and aroma. Almonds should be free from rancidity and off flavors or odors.
· Inspect for foreign material (insects or insect damage). Do not accept any shipment that does not meet these standards.
If you adopt these into your SOWs (Standard Operating Procedures) at your place of manufacture you’ll be doing yourself a huge favor!
All my best,
Jennifer
NEWS
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