FOOD & BEVERAGE
ASK THE INSPECTION EXPERTS
In this joint Q&A, Rob Stevens, Market
Manager from Mettler- Toledo Product
Inspection and Merce Sanchez, Food
Programme Manager, BRCGS, outline how product inspection can help compliance with BRCGS Global Standards
s consumers become increasingly savvy, demanding transparency and safety in the food they consume, the role of rigorous standards such as the BRCGS Global Standard Food Safety has never been more critical. Standards shape the practices of manufacturers and influence consumer trust and market viability so for food manufacturers, the stakes are high. Navigating compliance is essential not only for passing audits but also for sustaining a reputation built on quality and safety. So, how can manufacturers guarantee that they are not just compliant but also audit- ready at all times? The intersection of advanced product inspection technologies and dedicated service support provides a pathway for manufacturers to meet these challenges head-on.
A
Q: What is BRCGS, and why is it essential for food manufacturers? A (BRCGS): BRCGS is a global consumer protection organisation that provides robust certification programmes to ensure and protect product integrity in the food industry. With a heritage in British retail, BRCGS is recognised internationally, and its range of standards address various aspects of the modern food supply chain. BRCGS Global Standard Food Safety is one of those standards, providing a comprehensive framework that helps companies meet regulatory requirements and build consumer trust by demonstrating their commitment to safety and quality.
Q: How does BRCGS certification benefit food businesses? A (BRCGS): BRCGS certification is crucial for food businesses aiming to expand their global market reach. Many major retailers and food
service companies require suppliers to have BRCGS certification. The range of BRCGS Standards cover various aspects of food production, including food safety management, packaging, warehousing, distribution and supplier management. As food supply chains become more complex and globalised, BRCGS certification is a tool to help ensure product integrity and consistency across different regions and suppliers. Q: What are the critical components involved in achieving compliance with the BRCGS Global Standard Food Safety? A (BRCGS): Compliance with our Food Safety Standard requires organisations to implement systematic procedures addressing food safety, quality management and risk assessment. This approach involves several critical components, including regular monitoring of processes, strict hygiene practices and detailed documentation to track compliance efforts over time. Proper training of staff is essential to check that everyone within their organisation understands and adheres to these procedures, from frontline employees to management. Q: What challenges do manufacturers face in maintaining compliance with the BRCGS Global Standard Food Safety? A (BRCGS): One of the key challenges in maintaining compliance with the standard is ensuring effective communication and knowledge transfer throughout the entire production plant. Compliance requires more than just procedures and guidelines; it demands that all employees, from top management to line workers, understand the importance of food safety and quality. Clear communication channels must be established so that everyone is aware of their responsibilities, the standards they must adhere to and the rationale behind these requirements. Additionally, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement is essential. Manufacturers must prioritise regular training on the technology they are using and updates on regulatory changes to keep
26 JULY/AUGUST 2025 | PROCESS & CONTROL
everyone informed and equipped to meet evolving standards.
Q: How does product inspection contribute to compliance with the BRCGS Global Standard Food Safety? A (Mettler-Toledo): Product inspection plays a crucial role in meeting the BRCGS standard requirements. This involves advanced technologies that promote food safety and quality throughout the manufacturing process. Key technologies include: • Checkweighers • Metal Detectors
• X-ray Inspection Systems • Vision Systems
Product inspection equipment is like an insurance policy - it protects the company, retailer and consumer by automating quality control processes to confirm food products that reach retailer shelves consistently meet safety and quality standards.
Q: What misconceptions do food producers often have regarding compliance and product inspection? A (Mettler-Toledo): Many food producers believe that simply investing in advanced machinery will solve compliance issues. However, while we supply essential equipment like metal detectors and x-ray machines, we also provide education to help manufacturers understand how to use these systems effectively.
Q: Why is service support critical for manufacturers striving for compliance? A (Mettler-Toledo): Service support encompasses routine maintenance, calibration and verification processes, plus timely access to spare parts, all critical for achieving equipment reliability. Regular service keeps inspection systems running at peak performance and minimises downtime, especially during crucial audits.
Q: How does a robust service support plan aid audit readiness? A (Mettler-Toledo): With access to expert technicians, manufacturers can quickly
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44
