Mississauga, ON – April 17, 2024   — Introduction In the realm of food safety and quality, obtaining a high grade in audits is a significant milestone that speaks volumes about a company’s commitment to excellence and recently accomplished this feat by achieving an A grade in their 2024 BRCGS audit. This achievement not only highlights Vikmar Foods’ dedication to stringent quality standards but also reinforces their position as a trusted provider of safe and superior food products.

Understanding BRCGS Certification. The British Retail Consortium Global Standards (BRCGS) is a leading global safety and quality certification program recognized by retailers, manufacturers, and regulatory bodies worldwide. BRCGS certification signifies that a company has met rigorous standards in areas such as food safety, traceability, quality management, and legal compliance. Achieving an A grade in a BRCGS audit is a testament to a company’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of food safety and quality.

Preparation for the 2024 Audit Leading up to the 2024 BRCGS audit, Vikmar Foods embarked on a comprehensive preparation process to ensure compliance with the stringent standards set forth by the certification body. This involved:

1. Reviewing and updating existing food safety and quality management systems.
2. Conducting thorough internal audits to identify areas for improvement.
3. Implementing corrective and preventive actions to address any non-conformities.
4. Providing extensive training to employees on food safety protocols and best practices.
5. Enhancing traceability systems to track the journey of raw materials from source to finished product.
6. Collaborating closely with suppliers to ensure the quality and safety of incoming ingredients.
7. Conducting mock audits to simulate the actual audit process and identify areas of strength and improvement.

The Audit Process The 2024 BRCGS audit for Vikmar Foods was conducted by a team of experienced auditors who evaluated every aspect of the company’s operations related to food safety and quality. The audit process included:

1. Document Review: Auditors examined Vikmar Foods’ documentation pertaining to food safety policies, procedures, records, and certifications.
2. On-Site Inspection: Auditors visited Vikmar Foods’ facilities to assess hygiene practices, sanitation procedures, equipment maintenance, and overall operational compliance.
3. Interviews: Auditors interviewed key personnel at Vikmar Foods to gauge their knowledge and adherence to food safety protocols.
4. Testing: Samples of finished products were tested in accredited laboratories to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
5. Review of Corrective Actions: Auditors reviewed Vikmar Foods’ corrective and preventive actions taken in response to previous audit findings.

Achieving an A Grade Following a thorough evaluation, Vikmar Foods emerged successful in the 2024 BRCGS audit with an impressive A grade. This achievement reflects Vikmar Foods’ dedication to continuous improvement, robust food safety systems, and a culture of excellence across all levels of the organization.

Key Factors Contributing to Success Several key factors contributed to Vikmar Foods’ success in obtaining an A grade in the 2024 BRCGS audit:

1. Leadership Commitment: The leadership team at Vikmar Foods demonstrated unwavering commitment to food safety and quality, setting the tone for the entire organization.
2. Employee Training: Extensive training programs ensured that employees were well-equipped with the knowledge and skills required to maintain high standards of food safety.
3. Process Optimization: Continuous improvement initiatives and process optimization efforts enhanced efficiency and effectiveness in meeting audit requirements.
4. Supplier Collaboration: Collaborative partnerships with suppliers ensured the quality and safety of raw materials, contributing to the overall integrity of Vikmar Foods’ products.
5. Data-driven Approach: Utilizing data and analytics helped Vikmar Foods identify trends, anticipate potential issues, and proactively address them before they escalated.

Impact on Stakeholders The achievement of an A grade in the 2024 BRCGS audit has a positive impact on various stakeholders associated with Vikmar Foods:

1. Customers: Customers can have increased confidence in Vikmar Foods’ products, knowing that they meet the highest standards of food safety and quality.
2. Suppliers: Suppliers benefit from strengthened partnerships with Vikmar Foods, as the company’s commitment to quality extends throughout its supply chain.
3. Regulators: Regulatory bodies acknowledge Vikmar Foods’ compliance with industry standards, reinforcing the company’s reputation as a responsible food manufacturer.
4. Employees: Employees take pride in contributing to a company that prioritizes safety, quality, and continuous improvement, fostering a positive work culture.

Future Outlook Looking ahead, Vikmar Foods remains committed to maintaining and exceeding the standards set by the BRCGS certification. The company will continue to invest in technology, training, and process enhancements to further elevate its food safety and quality practices. Vikmar Foods’ success in the 2024 BRCGS audit serves as a testament to its ongoing pursuit of excellence and dedication to ensuring the well-being of its customers and the integrity of its products.

Conclusion Vikmar Foods’ achievement of an A grade in the 2024 BRCGS audit is a significant milestone that underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to food safety, quality, and continuous improvement. Through diligent preparation, robust systems, and a culture of excellence, Vikmar Foods has demonstrated its ability to meet and exceed the rigorous standards set by global certification bodies. This accomplishment not only instills confidence in stakeholders but also sets a benchmark for industry best practices, positioning Vikmar Foods as a leader in the realm of food safety and quality assurance.