Walk Before You Run

Often, I see young food and beverage processors attempting to run when they haven’t learned to walk.

It is particularly evident in their approach to food safety. For example, many companies prioritize scheduled audits or certifications long before they have completed months worth of records. The problem stems from underestimating the vastness of food safety and resources required to implement a food safety plan.

Passing an audit is a goal that is enviable. The importance of how you get there cannot be unstated.

The best companies treat food safety plans similarly to their first formulation creation. Creating a formulation takes time and commitment. It takes discipline to learn, repeat, and improve. You can liken it to how a toddler learns to crawl, walk, and (eventually) run.

Focus on today to make tomorrow better. Instead of rushing, stop and communicate with stakeholders like retailers or your biggest customers. (In most cases), to pass your first audit, you will require a bare minimum of 3 months of records. 6 months or more is preferred. If you haven’t done this before, walk and err on the side of caution.

Learn to walk for miles before you run!