Janna Hamlett Ph.D.

The culture of a facility in food safety or customer relations is impacted by how customer communications are managed. Customer complaint trending and response are part of a company or facility's risk management strategy. The objective of any management system is to try to protect the company from adverse actions. Understanding and responding to customer complaints is one strategy.

Food safety and quality systems do not have to be cumbersome and difficult to follow. The 5S system, when launched and properly maintained, can have a positive impact on food safety and quality programs, as well as operational efficiency.

Used food processing equipment can be a great asset to a facility, but it is important to ensure that the equipment will fit with existing processing needs and food safety considerations.