How often should I review my testing program?

In the food industry, analytical testing is essential to ensure that the products meet the required quality standards and are safe for consumption. Analytical testing programs are designed to identify potential hazards and contaminants in food products, as well as to monitor their composition, nutritional value, and quality. However, the analytical testing program needs to be reviewed periodically to ensure that it remains effective and up-to-date. 

How often do I need to review my food testing frequencies and protocols?

The frequency of the review of the analytical testing program will depend on several factors, including the testing program's complexity, the products' risk levels, and the regulatory requirements. Here are some general guidelines to help you determine how often you should review your analytical testing program:

1. Regulatory requirements: Regulatory agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) require food companies to comply with specific testing requirements. These requirements may be updated periodically, and you should review your testing program whenever there is a change in the regulations.

2. Changes in the production process: If you make changes to your production process or introduce new products or new ingredients or new suppliers, you should review your testing program to ensure that it remains relevant and effective. For example, if you start using new ingredients, you may need to test for additional contaminants or allergens based on their country of origin or expected hazards and allergens.

3. Buyer requirements:  Complying with government regulations is a minimum and often your buyers will have additional expectations for your testing scheme.  For instance, buyers may want to see QA data at a specified frequency as a part of their own supplier monitoring program.  

4. Customer feedback: If you receive complaints from customers or notice a pattern of quality issues, you should review your testing program to identify potential causes and make necessary changes.  Managing metrics like complaints per million units can be an effective business objective for quality assurance professionals.  

5. Annual review: It is generally recommended to review your analytical testing program at least once a year, even if there have been no significant changes to the production process, regulations, allergens, or expected hazards. This annual review should include a comprehensive assessment of all hazards and quality pitfalls; plus the testing procedures, methodologies, and equipment used.  Don't forget about the limits of detection if you have changed analytical methods!

6. Internal audits: Conducting regular internal audits can help identify potential gaps or weaknesses in your testing program. You should review your analytical testing program after every internal audit to ensure that any issues identified are addressed.

In conclusion, periodically reviewing your analytical testing program is critical to ensure that it remains effective in identifying potential hazards and contaminants in your food products. The frequency of the review will depend on several factors, and it is important to keep abreast of regulatory requirements, production changes, and customer feedback. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your testing program is up-to-date and effective in ensuring the safety and quality of your products.

If all of this seems like too much to do in addition to your day job, give us a call.