BLOCKCHAIN

Jacob Reddig

Thu, Sep 13, 9:14 AM (4 days ago)

to me





From: Carrie Carra
Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2018 8:41 AM
To: Andrew Sewnauth <andrew.sewnauth@cdslt.org>; Jacob Reddig <jacob.reddig@unistelindustries.com>; James Patchett <James.Patchett@unistelindustries.com>; Joel Salatino <Joel.Salatino@unistelindustries.com>; John Catalano <John.Catalano@unistelindustries.com>; Kim Albert <kim.albert@unistelindustries.com>; Roger Knowlton <Roger.Knowlton@cdsmonarch.org>
Subject: Food Safety



Some interesting information from the latest SQFI Newsletter.



Scott Brooks, founder of River Run Consulting, agrees supply chain management from a food-safety standpoint is becoming increasingly important. And while its actual implementation and impact will take some time to be realized, particularly as medium- and small-size manufacturers work to come into compliance, FSMA’s focus on hazard analysis and risk-based preventive controls will be a boon to the industry.



Execution at the operator level, that is, adhering to FDA Food Code guidelines for temperature maintenance, handwashing and preventing cross-contamination, and management practices such as not allowing sick employees to work, will continue to be critical, adds Brooks. “That’s all an ongoing challenge for operators, but it’s a matter of execution not rocket science. Where things really need to change for many companies is supply chain related,” he says.



Enter blockchain, an emerging technology that proponents say stands to make a dramatic and positive impact on supply chain transparency, accuracy and accountability. Initially developed for the cryptocurrency market, the technology has since been embraced as an important supply chain management and traceability tool.



In simple terms, a blockchain creates an immutable, digital, open-source record of every transaction in a product’s journey to restaurant or retailer.



Ultimately, a blockchain gives participating companies the ability to quickly and easily trace products at any point in their supply chain that may be implicated in foodborne illness.