BRC Batches of packaging material

Looking for some feedback on checks when changing batches of packaging materials (Issue 7 6.2.3). We are a co-packer who doesn't do "rework", doesn't conduct changeovers within a production day, and considers all product produced on a line within a production day (between sanitation cleans) a batch. What I am unsure about is what should be used to identify a batch of packaging. The packaging suppliers batch or lot or can our Company define what we consider a batch? Or could this possibly mean batches of packaging for changeover situations? 

Any input that could clear my confusion is much appreciated! 

Hi Tahlyav, the packaging supplier batch code (lot code) is whatever the packaging supplier tells you it is.  If you want to use your own code there must be a clear link between your code and the supplier’s code.

If you quote it to them they should be able to tell you all traceability information relating to the packaging materials production including date/time produced (from to), raw materials, machinery used, personnel involved, production and quality records, retained samples etc.  In the event of a problem they may also be able to tell you other affected batches.

Does this help at all?

Thanks for your input. We do track film with our own system which is electronic and can track each component of an order (for traceability). What we are trying to sort out is, if when running product and we would change supplier batch of the same film (say they made 2 rolls on 2 separate days) do we need to complete a documented check at that time? We do have documented checks at start up, at flavor or size changes, and set frequencies throughout the day by production and quality, and at the end of production. We also have checks upon receiving the film into the plant and shipping personnel can only scan and move items to a production room for the specific production order being produced.  

Ok I understand a little more now.

I guess you buy the film to a specification and the supplier do their quality checks and only release good materials to you.  Each reel is uniquely identified by the supplier.  You do incoming checks and have good control of material movement and usage by the sounds of it (barcode scanning).  It all sounds good.

You should be able to use rolls from multiple batches on one order without additional checks as they should all be equal.  Provided that you can clearly say these finished products were produced using that roll of film.  By the sounds of it you have this level of tight traceability.

Perfect! Thanks so much for taking the time to help me out :-)