Australian food businesses are turning to food safety software to protect their brand and consumers

Food businesses have been using software to improve efficiency and cut down on paperwork for a couple of decades. For most, the software has been more of a passive tool replacing old logbooks and paperwork. However, recent advances in technology such as the Internet of Things (IoT), 4G and 5G, faster internet speeds, and smartphones have resulted in a lot of changes.

Food safety software has advanced to the point where nearly all aspects of a food business can be monitored with more efficiency and accuracy than ever before. As a result, more companies are realising the benefits of these programmes and integrating them into their workflow.

What is food safety management software?

The software can come in various forms, such as an app or platform, and cover a variety of needs. 

Food safety management software can provide a broad overview of a business, as well as focus on specific details. Now that more aspects can be connected by IoT and logged in the cloud, the software is getting exponentially more helpful. For example, it can monitor temperatures, log inventory, detect pests, check real-time deliveries, notify when food is spoiling, keep up to date with compliance laws, and more. The software can keep track of every step of the food chain.

What are the advantages?

Food can be tracked and continually monitored to ensure it is safe to eat. Aspects such as temperatures can be constantly noted and checked, so they always remain within acceptable boundaries.  Transport times and expiry dates can be easily observed to avoid food spoilage, with automated alerts when there is a problem. 

The software also dramatically improves efficiency. Switching from traditional methods such as logbooks and ledgers allows for the uploading, sharing, and syncing of information. Being able to see operations in real-time, further efficiencies can be noted, and possible problems spotted in advance. It can also allow for increased automation of processes.

The data collected can be beneficial in multiple ways. It can be analysed to check the performance, spot pressure points in the supply chain, minimise time waste, improve efficiencies, and save money. Looking ahead, it can also help notice potential issues, spot trends, and aid decision-making. 

Many businesses are buying food safety software to help ensure food safety compliance. Data and processes can be organised, and monitored better, ultimately mitigating risks of something going unnoticed. It allows for information to be synced and available across the company, facilitating compliance and awareness of regulations. Furthermore, many programmes can check specific requirements, such as adherence to Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP). With tick lists, automated data, up-to-date information, and the ability to list corrective actions, managers can stay on top of their legal obligations.

With information organised and in one place, food businesses using food safety management software are finding they are a lot more prepared and ready for audits and inspections. Not only is compliance easier to monitor, but all documentation is in one place.

Food safety management software makes things easier and builds trust

The capabilities and efficiencies provided by these programs are well-known. Consequently, regulators, partners, staff, and employees, feel more confident in the management of the food businesses that use these platforms.

However, the primary reason more Australian companies are using the software is simple. Running a food business is tough and keeping track of everything can be complex. Using food safety management software makes things a lot easier, it helps protect their brand and customers.

Article Published by: Food Safety Select

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