Bringing Food Safety To The Boardroom

New Zealand Food Safety has released a new publication that provides foundation food safety information for directors, executives and owners of food businesses.

New Zealand Food Safety’s director of food regulation, Paul Dansted, said the guide, has been developed with the support of the Institute of Directors and is designed to assist directors, executives and business owners understand their responsibilities concerning food safety and to improve food safety culture in their businesses.

“Having a strong food safety culture is vital,” he said. “It’s essential for the health of our consumers and the strength of our economy that New Zealand food continues to be safe and suitable and we protect our excellent reputation. Most food business owners, managers, and staff have an inherent sense of pride in what they are doing and are motivated to build and maintain a good reputation for their business.

“However, more businesses need to adopt specific food safety goals, key performance indicators, and formal rewards systems for staff who identify food safety problems. We also recommend that businesses develop a more inclusive and shared sense of responsibility for food safety across the whole organisation supply chain.”