We extend our gratitude to the esteemed professionals who have contributed their diverse viewpoints to the ongoing discourse regarding the value of audits.
In response to this dynamic dialogue, we share our perspective on the evolving role of food safety audits, acknowledging the transformative shift from a traditional compliance-centric approach to a broader, value-driven approach. Our view encompasses all categories of audits, including 1st, 2nd, and 3rd party assessments.
The fundamental objective of an audit, as defined, is to furnish an impartial evaluation of the subject matter, providing stakeholders with the assurance that examined information or processes align with established criteria. Traditionally perceived as a means to ensure compliance, audits are undergoing a paradigm shift, with an increasing emphasis on delivering tangible value to audited organizations.,
We strongly believe, that professionally conducted food safety audits contribute significantly to value delivery:
1. Compliance: Food safety audits provide a systematic approach to assess compliance, helping businesses identify and rectify any deviations promptly. While it may be impractical to check every regulation during an audit, the process facilitates a detailed examination of the methodologies employed by organizations to ensure compliance.
2. Risk Mitigation: Identifying potential risks and implementing preventive measures are integral components of food safety audits. The proactive approach adopted during audits enables businesses to mitigate the risks associated with foodborne illnesses, recalls, and reputational damage, fostering a culture of resilience and adaptability.
3. Continuous Improvement: Food safety audits extend beyond a mere checklist approach to compliance. They emerge as catalysts for continuous improvement in product quality and safety. By identifying areas for improvement, audits contribute to the evolution of higher-quality and safer products while reinforcing the establishment of the right culture.
4. Transparency: A holistic approach defines food safety audits as they extend beyond production facilities to review the entire supply chain. This comprehensive evaluation fosters transparency, shedding light on the practices of suppliers and distributors, thereby fortifying the integrity of the entire production and distribution process.
5. Cost Saving: While the initial investment in food safety audits might be perceived as an additional expense, it serves as a prudent strategy for long-term cost savings. Timely identification and rectification of issues during the production process enable businesses to prevent costly recalls, legal disputes, and damage control efforts.
6. Branding: In an era of global consumer choices, trust in food safety is non-negotiable. Regular food safety audits, when embraced as part of an organization’s culture, convey a powerful message to consumers — their well-being is a top priority. Confidence, thus, becomes a cornerstone of brand loyalty.
In alignment with ISO’s definition of “adding value” as making something more useful, food safety professionals are tasked with getting and delivering increased value through the auditing process. The future of auditing lies not just in ensuring compliance but in the relentless pursuit of maximizing value for organizations.
This shift toward a value-centric approach is not merely a trend; it is the defining trajectory that will shape the future landscape of auditing practices.
By Tülay Kahraman
January 31, 2024
