Background

Seawork Fish Processors is a leading fish processing company known for its high-quality seafood products. With a growing demand for their products both locally and internationally, the company recognized the need to enhance their food safety standards to meet customer requirements and remain competitive in the market. In response to customer demands and industry trends, Seawork decided to pursue IFS Food Certification, a GFSI-benchmarked and globally recognized standard for food safety and quality management systems. 

Problem Definition 

The primary challenge faced by Seawork was to implement the IFS Food Certification system efficiently and effectively within their fish processing facility. This involved understanding the requirements of the certification, optimizing existing processes, acquiring necessary knowledge and skills, and streamlining operations to meet the rigorous standards set forth by IFS Food certification scheme. 

Solutions Implemented 

Seawork embarked on a comprehensive journey to address the challenges posed by implementing the IFS Food Certification system. The solutions implemented included: 

System Optimization: Seawork conducted a thorough assessment of their existing processes and identified areas that needed improvement to align with IFS Food standards. This involved updating facilities, equipment, implementing new protocols, and revising existing procedures to enhance food safety and quality. 

Knowledge Acquisition: To ensure compliance with IFS Food requirements, Seawork invested in training and development programs for their employees. This included educating staff on food safety protocols, hygiene practices, and quality management principles. 

Streamlining Processes: Seawork streamlined their operations to optimize efficiency and effectiveness in meeting IFS Food standards. This involved reorganizing workflows, implementing standardized procedures, and adopting technology solutions to automate tasks and minimize errors. 

IFAC’s Role 

Seawork enlisted the expertise of Iyalago Food Assurance Consultants (IFAC) to guide them through the process of implementing the IFS Food documentation system. IFAC played a crucial role in planning and collaborating on the project, offering specialized knowledge and support at every stage. Their assistance included: 

Document Review: IFAC conducted a comprehensive review of Seawork’s existing documentation and processes to identify gaps and areas for improvement in relation to IFS Food requirements. 

Compilation Assistance: IFAC assisted the dedicated Seawork team in compiling the necessary documentation and paperwork required for the certification process. This involved ensuring that all documentation met the stringent requirements set forth by IFS and fishing industry best practices. 

Training Plan Creation: IFAC worked closely with Seawork to develop a customized training plan for their employees. This plan included both classroom-style training sessions and on-the-job coaching to ensure that staff were adequately prepared to implement and maintain the IFS Food Certification system. 

Effective Internal Audit program: IFAC contributed to effectively training a competent internal audit team responsible for verifying the IFS Food system. 

Results 

Through the collaborative efforts of Seawork and IFAC, the company successfully achieved IFS Food Certification for their fish processing facility. The implementation of the certification system not only enhanced food safety and quality standards but also improved operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Seawork’s commitment to excellence in food safety and quality management has positioned them as a trusted provider of seafood products in the global market. 

Here is feedback from the Seawork Fish Processors’ team on the value added to their IFS Food system and experience in IFAC training courses: 

Mariette van Zyl, Quality Assurance Manager 

The fact that the people [IFAC] assisting with consultation or presenting of the training courses have vast experience in the fishing industry. I have recommended [IFAC] to others. 

[Please feel free to elaborate more about how we added value to your system and your experience with as] 

Marchalino Ambrosini, Production Manager 

In the Food defense  and Food fraud training course, I learned the importance of making sure your product is protected and how to do a risk and vulnerability study. 

Tjaard De Smit, Technical Manager 

As part of the HACCP team, I [value] and learned the importance of HACCP to export our final product. 

Josia Halwoodi, Internal Auditor 

I found the training quite informative and relevant to our operations. I learnt a lot from the training. My great take away from the training was the turtle diagram under the audit execution [process approach]. The diagram is easy to follow, and it is such a good tool for internal auditors. 

In conclusion, Seawork’s journey to implement the IFS Food Certification system with the assistance of IFAC demonstrates the importance of proactive measures in meeting customer requirements and industry standards. Through careful planning, optimization, and expert guidance, Seawork was able to achieve their goal of enhancing food safety and quality while maintaining competitiveness in the market.