As a result of technical advances, substantial global environmental issues, and shifting consumer preferences, the food and beverage industry is undergoing enormous changes. These modifications will significantly impact the training of quality and food safety auditors.
By 2030, the training of auditors in the food and beverage sector will be more sophisticated and technology-driven. As the industry continues to evolve and confront new obstacles, the presence of highly skilled auditors will play a vital role in upholding the safety, quality, and integrity of food products on a global scale. Individuals who fully embrace these ever-changing training paradigms will be highly prepared to significantly impact the future of food safety and quality.
Our main forecasts for how auditor training will evolve by 2030 are as follows:
- High level of Technological Expertise
By 2030, technology will be essential to the food and beverage industry. Auditor training programs will focus on improving digital literacy, utilizing AI for risk assessment, new technologies for traceability, and IoT for real-time monitoring. Auditors will need to be skilled at using these technologies to conduct comprehensive and efficient audits.
- Focus on Predictive Analytics and Big Data
The food industry will heavily rely on big data and predictive analytics. Training programs will likely offer advanced data science and analytics courses, empowering auditors to anticipate potential food safety issues and trends by analyzing large amounts of data. This proactive approach will allow them to address these concerns before they become serious, ultimately improving food safety measures and minimizing risks.
- Training on Global Food Safety and Regulatory Standards
With the rapid growth of the global food market, auditors must possess a deep understanding of international food safety regulations and standards. Training will cover diverse global regulatory frameworks, equipping auditors with the skills to navigate effectively in a multi-national context. This will ensure they can effectively assess and monitor food safety practices across countries and cultures.
- Specialized Training for Cutting-Edge Food Technologies
Given the advancements in lab-grown foods, plant-based proteins, and other cutting-edge food technologies, auditor training will now encompass specialized knowledge in these domains. Appreciating these novel products’ distinct safety and quality challenges will be paramount. Incorporating the latest research and regulations into the training program will ensure auditors are well-equipped to address potential issues.
- Ongoing Professional Growth and Micro-Credentialing
The rapidly changing landscape will require transitioning to models that prioritize ongoing learning. Micro-credentialing and modular training programs are expected to gain popularity, enabling auditors to stay up-to-date with their skills and knowledge in response to emerging challenges and technologies. This shift towards ongoing learning will help auditors adapt and thrive in the evolving industry.
- Increased Emphasis on Crisis Management and Emergency Response
With the rise in global health crises and natural disasters, training programs will prioritize crisis management and emergency response. Auditors will receive training on auditing strategies and programs for quick answers and managing high-pressure situations.
- Engaging and Interactive Learning Methods
Training methodologies are set to transform, embracing experiential and immersive techniques like virtual reality simulations and interactive case studies. These methods will give auditors practical experience in a controlled setting, improving their capacity to tackle real-life obstacles. They will also enhance their ability to make informed decisions and think critically.
- Demonstrating Outstanding Technical, Human and Strategic Skills
One can (and needs to) be a great technical expert, but this does not necessarily make the person a great auditor. The success of an audit depends on how the auditor blends the existing technical skills with the right level of human skills. Strategic skills act like a well-maintained agitator, combining technical and human skills. Without strategic and critical thinking skills, it is not possible to demonstrate the required professionalism to generate increased value for the business.
As the food and beverage industry evolves, communicating effectively, solving problems creatively, and adapting to change will be as important as technical know-how. Investing in soft skills training will equip auditors to handle the complexities of their role more effectively and contribute to the overall integrity and safety of the food supply chain. By developing these skills, auditors will become trusted advisors and leaders.
The ones the food and beverage industry needs…
By Marc Cwikowski
December 31, 2023
