Food supplier qualification by an Italian Large-scale-Distributor: Auditing system and non-conformances

Nowadays government and purchasers are constantly setting increasing stringent requirements for food quality and safety, this means that production and distribution companies in the food and beverage sector must have full control over all incoming and outgoing goods. In particular food suppliers for Large-scale-Distributors have to meet many specific requirements and to undergo audits in order to assure the hygienic and sanitary quality of their products. This study offers an example of a checklist used by an Italian Large-scale-Distributor for investigating the status of its food suppliers in order to detect non-conformances; it also provides information on HACCP system management in Italian food industries. Results collected during 85 audits are shown. Large food plants show a better application of HACCP principles than small sized enterprises.

► We audited 85 foodstuffs suppliers for an Italian Large-scale-Distributor. ► We used a checklist regarding “Hygienic Practices” and “Management Systems”. ► Major non-conformances involved “Management Systems” at higher rate. ► Large food plants applied HACCP principles better than small enterprises.