But when it came to verification and validation in the supply chain “a lack of evidence is evident”, warned CEO Geoff Ogle.
“Looking at supply-chain relationships from a regulatory perspective, any issues around Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points [HACCP], or lack of evidence of formal safety management systems simply increase uncertainty,” said Ogle. “And, any lack of evidence or of co-operation is likely to trigger more decisive action.”
Protecting your own reputation
Responsibility over due diligence is down to the manufacturer and retailer, and “the best argument in favour of due diligence is that you are protecting your own reputation,” Ogle suggested.
Beyond this, he emphasised that responsibility for food safety and hygiene rests with all partners in the chain. Moreover, establishing the origins of any problem triggering a recall may be one of the last pieces of the puzzle to slot into place.
“The priority has to be early identification and an efficient and proportionate response involving all supply chain partners,” Ogle claims.
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