8 mins read
How food safety protects your meals everyday
Our food can travel from the farm to our plate, from interstate and even around the globe before reaching your plate, ensuring its safety has never been more crucial. To mark World Food Day, we are exploring the vast array of safety measures that are in place to protect your meals every day.
We spoke to Mary Morrison, our Food Safety expert facilitator to discover the pivotal role of food safety training to ensure the integrity of what ends up on your plate. Mary shares her insights from her food safety career which spans more than 30 years in the food manufacturing environment in Ireland and Australia.
Food safety training equips industry professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to meet regulatory standards and address potential hazards. From understanding allergen management to mastering complex auditing systems, these courses are vital for maintaining high standards within the food industry. Join us as we explore the essential aspects of food safety training that safeguard the food supply chain.
Begin with the hero of HACCP
As a food safety professional, people often want to know where to start. “My answer is to point to HACCP, which is an excellent food safety system,” explains Mary Morrison, “from there, you can expand into different food safety programs, as your interest and experience grows.”
The backbone of food safety is the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) system. It provides a structured approach to identify and control hazards in food production. Underpinning many global food safety frameworks, HACCP guides professionals in developing systems that ensure consumer protection.
Implementing HACCP involves assessing potential hazards at every stage, from raw material procurement to the final product. Its principles are designed to prevent issues before they occur, rather than relying on end-product testing. This proactive approach not only enhances food safety but also boosts confidence among consumers.
HACCP’s relevance extends beyond compliance. By adopting this framework, businesses can streamline their processes, reduce waste, and improve efficiency. In a competitive market, these benefits translate into both economic gains and customer loyalty.
We know the importance of HACCP training for the food, beverage and service industry in Australia, and have offer a variety of courses to upskill at scale. You can step into HACCP training in a number of ways with our team:
- Introduction to Food Safety and HACCP Awareness: This is the ideal beginner’s course in food safety. It is designed to give a general introduction to the seven principles of the HACCP system.
- Principles and Applications of HACCP: Gain a practical understanding of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) and learn how to develop and implement a HACCP system to meet customer and regulatory requirements.
- Principles and Applications of HACCP for Producers: Equipping growers and packers with a practical understanding of the HACCP methodology and how to use it within their own properties. This course meets the formal HACCP training requirements of Woolworths, SQF, and Coles Brand suppliers.
- HACCP Refresher: Enhance your knowledge of food safety. Learn how to develop a robust Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points HACCP plan to identify, evaluate, and control food safety hazards effectively.
Navigating the new FSSC 22000 Version 6.0
An important benchmark for food safety management systems is the FSSC 22000 certification. With the introduction of Version 6.0 on 1 April 2024, organisations must adapt to new requirements to maintain compliance. Enhancing transparency and sustainability within the food supply chain is the focus of the new edition.
Understanding the key changes in FSSC 22000 Version 6.0 is crucial for businesses aiming to stay ahead. This includes a greater emphasis on food safety culture, risk-based thinking, and environmental management. Training courses tailored to these revisions provide invaluable insights and practical guidance.
Equipping your team with knowledge about the FSSC 22000 scheme prepares them for successful implementation and audit readiness. By staying informed and proactive, companies can ensure their operations align with the latest industry standards.
- FSSC 22000 Version 6.0 Awareness Training: For the latest edition of Food Safety for FSSC 22000, this course is ideal for people who want to develop an understanding of Food Safety and the FSSC scheme, or those wanting to understand the changes to the FSSC scheme.
Implementing SQF Systems for Manufacturing
Another critical component in maintaining high safety standards is the Safe Quality Food (SQF) program. Designed for manufacturing sectors, the SQF Systems course provides a comprehensive framework for developing and managing food safety systems.
This course offers in-depth understanding and practical tools for SQF practitioners responsible for food safety systems. It covers aligning practices with SQF Code Edition 9, ensuring seamless integration into daily operations.
By successfully implementing SQF systems, businesses can improve their safety culture and operational efficiency. This not only mitigates risks but also enhances brand reputation and consumer trust.
- Implementing SQF Systems – Manufacturing Edition 9: This newly refreshed Implementing SQF System course is designed for those individuals, such as the SQF practitioner, responsible for developing, aligning, verifying, maintaining, and otherwise supporting the site’s SQF food safety System and its culture of food safety.
Mastering Allergen Management with the new VITAL 4.0
Allergen management is a growing concern in the food industry due to rising consumer expectations and regulatory demands. The VITAL 4.0 framework offers a robust approach to managing food allergens and preventing cross-contact.
Training in allergen management equips professionals with the skills needed to conduct thorough risk assessments. This involves identifying potential allergen sources, implementing control measures, and ensuring accurate labelling.
Through effective allergen management, businesses can protect sensitive consumers while meeting legislative requirements. It also demonstrates a commitment to product safety that resonates with today’s health-conscious consumers.
- Allergen Management and VITAL 4.0: Elevate your food safety skills with allergy management knowledge. The new Allergen Management and Vital 4.0 course equips participants with essential skills to perform allergen risk assessments in the food industry and appropriately declare cross-contact food allergens.
Conducting effective BRCGS food safety audits
Favoured by many of the retailers in Australia, the BRCGS Food Safety Standard is a globally recognised certification for food safety management. It provides a framework for conducting audits that ensure compliance with stringent regulatory requirements.
The BRCGS Auditor Course (Issue 9) offers detailed insights into auditing principles, including planning, execution, and reporting. Participants learn to evaluate food safety systems against the standard’s requirements, identifying areas for improvement.
Conducting regular BRCGS audits enhances an organisation’s safety protocols and operational efficiency. It also demonstrates due diligence to stakeholders, fostering confidence in the company’s commitment to quality.
BRCGS Food Safety (Issue 9): This course enables delegates to gain a full understanding of the general principles of the requirements of the Standard, including fundamental clauses and statements of intent, and how to undertake a BRCGS audit, including planning and reporting of the audit.
Leading the way as a Food Safety Auditor
Food safety auditors play a vital role in ensuring compliance with industry standards. The Food Safety Auditor course provides the knowledge and skills needed to conduct thorough and effective audits.
Covering ISO 22000 and ISO 19011 requirements, this course ensures auditors are equipped to assess food safety systems systematically. It includes planning, conducting, and reporting audits, ensuring adherence to best practices.
Becoming a certified food safety auditor opens new career opportunities and enhances professional credibility. It also contributes to an organisation’s commitment to maintaining high safety standards.
- Quality Assurance and Food Safety Management: Gain the essential skills to become an effective Quality Assurance Manager in the food industry. It emphasizes key areas such as compliance, leadership, risk management, and the necessary knowledge and skills for quality assurance professionals. You’ll learn how to successfully implement Food Safety and HACCP programs.
- Internal Food Safety Auditor ISO22000:2018 & ISO19011:2018: The purpose of this course is to provide you with the knowledge and skills required to conduct an internal food safety audit against any GFSI-approved food safety standard.
Advance your food safety career with professional training
Continuing education is essential for professionals in the food industry. Training courses provide valuable insights into emerging trends and best practices, ensuring businesses remain competitive and compliant.
Investing in training demonstrates a commitment to food safety and quality. It equips teams with the skills needed to address challenges proactively, reducing risks and enhancing consumer trust.
By prioritising training, businesses can build a culture of safety and excellence that sets them apart from competitors. It also fosters employee engagement and satisfaction, contributing to long-term success.
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Reach out to a training expert today
Food safety training is a vital component of the food industry, protecting consumers and enhancing business operations. From understanding HACCP principles to mastering allergen management, these courses provide essential skills and knowledge.
The benefits of food safety training extend beyond compliance. They include improved efficiency, reduced risks, and increased consumer confidence. By prioritising training, businesses can build a culture of safety and excellence that sets them apart from competitors.
For those looking to advance their careers in food safety, reaching out to a training expert can provide valuable guidance and support. Whether you’re interested in becoming a certified auditor or mastering allergen management, there are opportunities to enhance your skills and make a meaningful impact.
Explore our range of food safety training courses today to unlock the potential of your career and contribute to a safer, healthier food supply chain.
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