One of the more challenging aspects of food manufacturing is food processors’ ability to discern between a fad and a trend, be they consumer- or industry-driven. A fad typically drives a relatively quick change in the way a company does business or makes and markets its products. The challenge is trying to predict if a fad will evolve into something with continuity—a trend. Both fads and trends pose risks to business success, including product quality and food safety.
One of the biggest trends in the food industry is the focus on Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI)-benchmarked audit schemes for verification of food-safety programs. These audits not only look for strong implementation of food-safety programs, but also for the implementation of a quality system to manage these programs. The intent is directionally correct and admirable. However, there are examples in which a narrow interpretation and focus from practices to paperwork have created unintended consequences. These consequences have been a loss of attention to good manufacturing practices, resulting in a deterioration of sanitation conditions and food-safety practices in the production environment.