Oluwaseyi Malachi’s Post

𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕚𝕤 𝕒 𝕡𝕠𝕤𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕧𝕖 𝕗𝕠𝕠𝕕 🥑 𝕤𝕒𝕗𝕖𝕥𝕪 𝕔𝕦𝕝𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕖 ❓ The term "culture" (in the context of product or food safety) is used over a dozen times within Issue 9 of the BRCGS Global Food Safety Standard - if indeed any more emphasis was required to demonstrate the importance placed on this subject. But what does it really mean? 🤔 There are many definitions but perhaps the simplest practical illustration of a stong food safety culture is that "𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗼𝘆𝗲𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗱𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗶𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗳𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝘀𝗮𝗳𝗲𝘁𝘆 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀, 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗯𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗯𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲𝗱." Meaning they do the right thing not becasue they have to but because they believe it to be the right way to act. ✅ Implicitly then, employee training 📖 has to achieve not only teaching people the standards they need to uphold but also 𝘄𝗵𝘆 these are important and the impact of not getting them right. It's human nature, however, to simplify tasks and to save time whenever possible and this can lead to corner-cutting ✂ so I believe that management, as welling as setting and communicating standards, also has a role to play in making it as easy as possible for employees to do their work without the need for corner-cutting or compromising. A fuller explanation of how to create a food safety culture can be found at https://lnkd.in/eFFUN6ne I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences on this topic in the comments below 👇 #foodsafety #foodsafetyculture #training #brc #auditor #compliance #standards #continuousimprovement #kaizen #marginalgains

Day 5 - Food Safety Knowledge sharing Food Safety Culture and its Elements.  1. Leadership: For any organization, the culture in the organization is defined by the leaders/ top management of the organization. Their awareness and actions decides the culture of organization positively or negatively. To give an example- one day while performing audit, I was entering into a food processing area along with the plant head. After completing all the essential activities in change room, we were just about to enter processing hall. Suddenly a food handler came and said to plant head “sir you are wearing wrist watch, please remove it before entering the processing area”. I was astonished to see the reaction of plant head. He said” Oh I am sorry. I almost forgot to remove it. Thank you for reminding me before we enter the processing hall”. This is something we say demonstrating leadership while “lead by example”. Top management need to first be aware enough to understand and follow the practices and create suitable environment for food safety to be followed by everyone in his/her organization. Thus leadership defines food safety culture of the organization. 2. Empowerment of employee: Above mentioned example is equally applicable for empowerment of employees along with leadership. The food handler could stop and say something about non-compliance of jewelry policy by plant head only because he felt empowered to do so. Empowering and trusting the employees to take decisions and talk openly about food safety issues, problem solving and continuous improvement is the key strategy for ensuring food safety culture within organization. Empowerment and trust of employees can be achieved through transparency in communication and supporting each other. Next Part... 3) Encouragement and Appreciation 4) Responsibility and Accountability 5) Team Work 6) Awareness and Training. #foodsafety #foodsafetyculture #foodsecurity #foodsafetytraining #food #foodsafetymanagementsystem #haccp #fssc22000 #brcgs #Quality #qualityassurance #qualitycontrol #qualitymanagement #foodtechnology #foodandbeverageindustry #foodbusiness #foodhygiene #fooddefense #foodfraud #audit #industrygoodpractices #GMP

*📢 The Role of Auditors: Partners in Food Safety and Continuous Improvement* As auditors, our role is not to judge or decide the fate of those we audit. Instead, we are here to collaborate, using our expertise to help enhance food safety programs and practices. Audits should be a collaborative journey focused on identifying how the auditee meets requirements, not just pointing out shortcomings. 🔍 Embracing the True Role of Auditors: Partners in Progress: Our primary goal is to assist auditees in improving their food safety practices. We aim to provide constructive feedback and insights that drive continuous improvement. Open-Minded Approach: We understand that there are many ways to achieve compliance. It's crucial to be open to different methods and recognize that auditees have a deep understanding of their businesses. Focus on Strengths: While identifying areas for improvement, we should also highlight the strengths of the auditee’s program. This balanced approach fosters a positive environment for growth. 🌟 Fostering Collaboration and Learning: Constructive Engagement: Engage with auditees in a way that encourages dialogue and knowledge sharing. Together, we can explore new ideas and solutions. Encouraging Innovation: Support auditees in finding innovative ways to meet food safety standards while respecting their unique operational insights. Continuous Improvement: The ultimate goal of any audit is to facilitate ongoing development and enhancement of food safety practices. 🤝 Let's Work Together: By working collaboratively, auditors and auditees can build stronger, safer food safety systems that benefit everyone involved. 📣 Join the Conversation: I invite fellow auditors and food safety professionals to share their experiences and insights on fostering positive audit experiences. Let’s learn from each other and strive for excellence in food safety. #FoodSafety #AuditCollaboration #ContinuousImprovement #QualityAssurance #InnovationInFoodSafety #PartnershipInProgress

The Magic Formula for Creating a Food Safety Culture 🛡️🍴 Building a strong food safety culture within an organization requires more than just following regulations. It’s about embedding food safety into the DNA of the business, making it a part of every decision and action. Here's a formula to help create and sustain a robust food safety culture: 1. Leadership Commitment + Employee Empowerment = Ownership - Leadership Commitment: Leaders must actively demonstrate their commitment to food safety by prioritizing it in all business decisions, from investing in quality equipment to conducting regular safety audits. - Employee Empowerment:Employees should be encouraged to take ownership of food safety practices. This involves empowering them to speak up about potential risks and providing the training needed to ensure they can confidently follow safety protocols. 2. Education + Continuous Improvement = Expertise - Education:Regular, hands-on training sessions help ensure all staff understand the importance of food safety and know exactly what to do to maintain it. - Continuous Improvement:Regularly update safety procedures and protocols to reflect new findings, technologies, and regulations, fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptation. 3. Clear Communication + Simplicity = Consistency - Clear Communication:Establish straightforward communication channels where food safety information is shared openly and regularly. This ensures that everyone in the organization is on the same page. - Simplicity:Simplify safety protocols so that they are easy to follow and remember. The simpler the processes, the more likely employees will adhere to them consistently. 4. Transparency + Accountability = Trust - Transparency:Be open about food safety practices with both employees and customers. This transparency builds trust and reassures all stakeholders that food safety is a top priority. - Accountability:Create systems that hold everyone accountable for their role in maintaining food safety, from top management to frontline employees. 5. Engagement + Recognition = Motivation - Engagement:Engage employees at all levels by involving them in safety discussions, soliciting their input, and making them part of the solution. - Recognition:Regularly recognize and reward employees who demonstrate outstanding commitment to food safety. This not only motivates them but also sets a positive example for others. By integrating these elements into your business, you can create a strong, sustainable food safety culture that goes beyond compliance and becomes an integral part of your organization's identity. Are you ready to transform your approach to food safety? Start implementing these strategies today and watch your food safety culture flourish. #FoodSafety #Leadership #EmployeeEmpowerment #ContinuousImprovement #Trust #Transparency

Pill of the Day! The role of food safety auditors and professionals is of utmost importance in ensuring the well-being of consumers. They play a significant role in upholding food safety standards, preventing the outbreak of diseases, and maintaining high levels of hygiene. While it is crucial for these professionals to work in a scientific approach and be at the forefront of enforcing food safety regulations, it is equally important to consider their behavior when interacting with clients and staff members. Food safety professionals often encounter a diverse range of employees with varying backgrounds, educational levels, and levels of training and tools. It is not enough to simply identify what is right or wrong during audits without providing a comprehensive explanation and coverage of the basic principles of food safety and hygiene.  The approach taken towards management, kitchen staff, and service staff members is critical and must take into consideration several elements before drawing conclusions or admonishing them. Food safety is a challenging area that spans across various industries, and it takes time and effort to convince people of its importance. It is essential to create a team that truly believes in the significance of food safety and how it contributes to the well-being of consumers. However, this process requires a delicate touch and understanding of the need to change mindsets. Rather than solely focusing on mistakes and shortcomings, it is crucial to highlight progress, no matter how small. Recognizing and giving credit to individuals who are willing to change and embrace new habits can go a long way in fostering a positive and productive environment.  As food safety professionals, our role extends beyond simply enforcing regulations. We must act as coaches and mentors, seeking to guide and support individuals, thereby enabling them to embrace a culture of food safety.  In conclusion, food safety auditors and professionals hold a vital role in safeguarding the health and well-being of consumers. While their scientific approach is crucial, their behavior and approach towards clients and staff members are equally important. Considering the background, educational level, training, and tools of employees is paramount when addressing food safety concerns.  It is imperative to change mindsets by coaching, mentoring, and recognizing progress, all while instilling the importance of food safety and creating a team that truly believes in its significance.  #foodsafetyculture #foodsafetytraining #foodsafetyandhygiene #foodandbeverageindustry #foodsafety #foodsafetyfirst #foodsafetymatters #haccptraining #haccp

Beyond the Surface: Mastering Audit Responses for Food Safety Success . In the high-pressure environment of an audit, it’s not uncommon for auditees to stick strictly to what’s asked, often opting for a quick “NO” rather than digging deeper. It’s understandable—thinking on the spot under scrutiny can be challenging. . However, this can create a stark contrast when it comes to addressing non-conformities (NCs), where the pressure can feel even more intense. . In Food Safety Management Systems (FSMS), it’s crucial to recognize that different Food Business Operators (FBOs) have unique approaches to controlling hazards. Rather than taking an auditor’s question at face value, the real key to success is understanding the essence of the question and aligning it with the standard's requirements. . Here’s how to turn audit pressure into a chance for success: . 🔍 Understand the Essence: Look beyond the surface of the auditor’s question. Grasp what they’re really asking and how it relates to your FSMS. . 📚 Match with Standards: Ensure your responses are aligned with the specific requirements of the standard, not just the literal question. . 🛠️ Showcase Your Approach: Demonstrate how your unique hazard controls and practices meet the standards effectively. . 🚀 Prepare for NCs: Anticipate potential non-conformities and be ready with clear explanations on how you’ll address them. . Audits can be a roller coaster, with moments of intense scrutiny and rapid-fire questions. Embrace these moments as opportunities to showcase your commitment and thorough understanding of food safety. With the right preparation and mindset, you’ll turn the audit process into a demonstration of your dedication to building safer food systems. Remember, every challenge in the audit process is an opportunity to shine. So, stay sharp, stay prepared, and make sure your answers reflect not just compliance, but a deep understanding of food safety. 🔗 Ready to master the art of audit responses? Explore more resources and training with us at Global Food Safety Institute. Let’s build a safer food system together! #FoodSafety #AuditSuccess #GFSInstitute

Beyond the Surface: Mastering Audit Responses for Food Safety Success . In the high-pressure environment of an audit, it’s not uncommon for auditees to stick strictly to what’s asked, often opting for a quick “NO” rather than digging deeper. It’s understandable—thinking on the spot under scrutiny can be challenging. . However, this can create a stark contrast when it comes to addressing non-conformities (NCs), where the pressure can feel even more intense. . In Food Safety Management Systems (FSMS), it’s crucial to recognize that different Food Business Operators (FBOs) have unique approaches to controlling hazards. Rather than taking an auditor’s question at face value, the real key to success is understanding the essence of the question and aligning it with the standard's requirements. . Here’s how to turn audit pressure into a chance for success: . 🔍 Understand the Essence: Look beyond the surface of the auditor’s question. Grasp what they’re really asking and how it relates to your FSMS. . 📚 Match with Standards: Ensure your responses are aligned with the specific requirements of the standard, not just the literal question. . 🛠️ Showcase Your Approach: Demonstrate how your unique hazard controls and practices meet the standards effectively. . 🚀 Prepare for NCs: Anticipate potential non-conformities and be ready with clear explanations on how you’ll address them. . Audits can be a roller coaster, with moments of intense scrutiny and rapid-fire questions. Embrace these moments as opportunities to showcase your commitment and thorough understanding of food safety. With the right preparation and mindset, you’ll turn the audit process into a demonstration of your dedication to building safer food systems. Remember, every challenge in the audit process is an opportunity to shine. So, stay sharp, stay prepared, and make sure your answers reflect not just compliance, but a deep understanding of food safety. 🔗 Ready to master the art of audit responses? Explore more resources and training with us at Global Food Safety Institute. Let’s build a safer food system together! #FoodSafety #AuditSuccess #GFSInstitute

As a seasoned FSQA VP in the food industry , I can't stress enough: food safety is everyone's responsibility, not just the technical teams. A strong food safety culture is crucial for our industry. I recently read an article in New Food Magazine highlighting this exact sentiment. Here are a few Key takeaways on fostering food safety culture: 1. Management commitment is vital - we must lead by example. 2. Clear, consistent messaging & Communication that aligns with the company's vision. 3. Food safety should be the lead item in management meetings. 4. Reward and recognize employees who support the culture. 5. Continuously engage employees for feedback and improvement. Great Reminder: "You can have the best documented food safety processes and standards in the world, but if they're not consistently put into practice by people, they're useless." - Frank Yiannas, FDA Let's keep the conversation going.  How does your organization prioritize food safety culture? #FoodSafety #QualityAssurance #LeadershipInAction

Food safety culture continues to be an often-requested and discussed topic with my course attendees and clients, and for good reason! Our policies, programs, and procedures may be the most eloquently written and technically accurate documents, but our team members have to want to make the correct, food-safe choices. Whether you know it or not, your facility already has a food safety culture! The question now is, “How would you describe yours?”

Creating a behavior-based food safety system isn't just about compliance; it's about fostering a culture where every team member is a proactive guardian of quality. By focusing on behavior, we can ensure that food safety practices become second nature, reducing risks and enhancing the overall safety of our products. This approach empowers employees to take ownership, encourages continuous improvement, and aligns the entire organization towards a common goal—delivering safe, high-quality food. Let's shift from just ticking boxes to building a culture that truly values and embodies food safety at every level. Jim -Kelly (el-professor) Anita Jerotich Methuselah Mang'erere Medlyne Cherotich #FoodSafety #ManufacturingExcellence #QualityCulture