Michael Ciepiela

Michael Ciepiela is Vice President of Quality and Continuous Improvement at Southern Specialties. He brings over a decade of diverse experience in the food and beverage industry, along with experience in the pharmaceutical sector, specializing in quality assurance and food safety. Throughout his career, he has excelled in multi-site implementation and adherence to GFSI requirements and regulations. Michael has also been instrumental in promoting and educating Lean Six Sigma principles in fast-paced, cross-departmental settings. As a recognized thought leader, Michael frequently speaks at national conferences. He is also a senior member of the American Society for Quality (ASQ). He holds a bachelor's degree in Biology from Alfred University and a Six Sigma Master Black Belt from Villanova University.

Articles

ARTICLES

grocery store shelf display stocked with fresh vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, eggplant, and colorful peppers

Managing Risk From Seed to Shelf: A Comprehensive Approach to Fresh Produce Food Safety

The ability to effectively manage risk begins long before a product is harvested, transported, or processed
Michael Ciepiela

As regulatory requirements continue to evolve and consumer expectations increase, organizations across the fresh produce supply chain must adopt a proactive approach to risk management that emphasizes prevention, verification, transparency, and continuous improvement. 


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spices

Safeguarding the Spice Industry: Strategies for Contamination Prevention and Quality Control

By integrating regulatory mandates with strong internal controls and industry best practices, spice manufacturers can enhance food safety and maintain the integrity of their products
Michael Ciepiela

Spices are sourced from various regions worldwide, often involving multiple suppliers, diverse agricultural practices, and differing regulatory standards. These complexities increase the risk of contamination, adulteration, and foodborne illnesses. Effectively managing these risks requires a thorough understanding of the international supply chain and the vulnerabilities that exist at each stage.


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