Dear Saferpakers,
Over the last few months, we have had several discussions on the issue of customer complaint (but remember we have truly talked about a real product recall yet). Responses from producers with regards to customer complaints on "Exhibit A" and "Kraft Mayonnaise" (my complaint) have fall way short of decent level of responsibility and accountability.
We have also talked about corporate social responsibility or accountability (whatever the differences in terminologies are). From my observations and the readings of the comments posted, there seem to be several issues that may require further discussions at this forum.
While I have no doubt about the desire of most companies in wanting to embrace the appropriate certification (which in this case, I would refer to HACCP) but you get this feeling that this enthusiasm is just not there when it comes to addressing "problems" concerning potential food safety issues.
This brings to mind whether this "sudden" deterioration of desire is a result of potential financial losses that may be incurred if such an event is pursued OR HACCP certification was embraced purely to facilitate and fulfil good business relationship OR falsely enhance product image OR be complaint to gain market share ..........
Or, is there a possibility that HACCP has yet to gain global maturity to a level where all manufacturers are responsible and be accountable to their products. I believe the EU is trying to do just that by legislating labeling regulations including a need for producers to provide proof of a sound and valid traceability and product recovery system.
Will sensitive customers be better informed of the product that they are buying when allergenic issues are concerned OR will customers be assured that products sold are continuosly monitored by producers (beyond the facility)....all these remain to be challenged.
At Saferpakers' Forum.............here is our chance to speak our mind. As a consumer, what do you like to see, changes to be made, a watchdog monitoring system perhaps.........your call!
Is HACCP or BRC/IOP or any systems for that matter really worthwhile pursuing or am I shooting my own feet here? ...........but I know amongst all these ambiguity, there is still a visibility of hope.
Regards
Charles Chew
Edited by Simon Timperley, 01 August 2004 - 07:10 PM.