Packaging and Chemical Supplier Risk Levels
I need help on assigning both Packaging Supplier Risk levels. This was a non conformance on our SQF Desk Audit. I'm trying to figure out some point system and thought I could maybe base the scoring system on some of the following:
1. Primary or Secondary Packaging
2. HACCP or Food Safety Plan in place
3. Food Safety Certifications
4. Food Defense Plan in Place
5. Allergens in packaging material
6. Supplier performance history
Not sure if anyone thinks I should add additional scoring parameters?
Also if anyone has a scoring system or a document they would like to share I'd greatly appreciate it. Definitely having trouble figuring this one out.
Hi NorCalNate. First 4 points seem reasonable, but 5 & 6 are quite too much: Allergens in packaging material - which food allergens you're referring to? Supplier performance history - I've never heard of such a criteria; how you're going to measure it? However, it's of course up to you:)
Sorry, I'm not familiar with SQF: is it the standard requirement to assign risk levels to packaging suppliers?
Supplier performance history can be measured a few ways (not all inclusive):
1. has the supplier ever failed to provide the required documentation with a shipment?
2. Have you had to reject a shipment from the supplier due to trailer contamination or excessive damaged product containers (boxes, etc.)
3. Have you had any issues with incorrect labeling or faulty packaging from the supplier.
Marshall
Seems to be duplicate of recent topic -
https://www.ifsqn.co...nt/#entry184993
Also see this similar SQF recent topic, eg. posts 2, 7 -
I agree with the above first 4 are reasonable.
As for allergen in packaging, may they be referring to your labeling? Labels if producing should include the allergen statement. What type of control is put into place for this?
Supplier performance history, does your company follow score cards? Also, any history of response to corrective actions, recalls, etc.
#5 is a laughable topic that I've ever heard from my naïve customers even they have just taken a sightseeing in factory. Unless the packaging & chemicals are biological or undergo bioprocessing, the allergen risk is not applicable by default.
People seem to be confused by a valid point of #6. It's about a business aspect that some are likely too technical (e.g. food safety) to understand.