The compliance challenge
Traceability must work forwards and backwards, within required timeframes, and reconcile quantities. Sites often discover gaps only during a mock recall — or worse, a real one.
Rework, bulk ingredients, multiple production runs and repacking are common weak points.
About this service
Traceability work establishes coding, records and reconciliation so any raw material batch can be traced to finished product and customer, and back again.
Recall and withdrawal procedures are developed alongside a crisis team structure and contact list, then tested through realistic mock recall exercises against the timeframe expected by your standard and customers.
Scope of support
- Traceability system design and coding conventions
- Lot and batch identification through the process
- Rework, bulk material and repacking traceability
- Mass balance and quantity reconciliation
- Forward and backward traceability testing
- Mock recall and mock withdrawal exercises
- Recall and withdrawal procedure development
- Crisis management team, roles and contact lists
- Customer and regulator notification procedures
- Record retention requirements
- Post-exercise gap analysis and improvement actions
- Recall readiness training for the crisis team
How the consultancy works
- 1
System review
Map how identification and records flow through the process today.
- 2
Design
Establish coding, records and reconciliation points to close gaps.
- 3
Procedures
Develop recall, withdrawal and crisis management procedures.
- 4
Exercise
Run a realistic mock recall against time and mass balance targets.
- 5
Review
Analyse results, document gaps and implement improvements.
- 6
Retest
Repeat at the required frequency, varying the scenario.
Relevant standards
- Food Standards Code Standard 3.2.2 recall requirements and the FSANZ Food Industry Recall Protocol
- Traceability and recall clauses within BRCGS, FSSC 22000 and SQF
- Retailer traceability and notification requirements
Who this suits
- Sites with complex batching, rework or bulk materials
- Businesses that failed or struggled with a mock recall
- Importers and distributors managing traceability across suppliers
- Sites preparing for certification
Compliance and operational benefits
- Traceability that reconciles within required timeframes
- A tested recall procedure and prepared crisis team
- Documented exercise evidence for audits and customers
- Reduced exposure if a real incident occurs