A Quick 10-Point Checklist for Managing Risks to Food Safety in a Storage & Distribution Environment

Ensuring the safety and integrity of stored and distributed food products is paramount to every operation. Proper storage and distribution practices can prevent issues like spoilage, damage, or degradation of food quality.

Take a look at this 10-point checklist to see how you can effectively manage the risks to food safety in a storage and distribution environment. While this is simply a recommended preliminary checklist, it’s a starting point to set you on the path to implementing a comprehensive food safety management system like the SQF program.

Once you are ready to get started with a comprehensive food safety management system, we encourage you to consider the SQF Code for Storage and Distribution, Edition 9. 

1. Implement and Maintain an Allergen Control Program

• Clearly label allergens on the product packaging.
• Educate staff on allergen awareness and proper handling procedures.

2. Manage Your Storage & Distribution Environment for Cross Contamination

• Establish and enforce strict cleaning and sanitation protocols.
• Implement color-coded equipment or storage systems for allergen separation.
• Train staff in proper handling to prevent cross-contact between different food items.

3. Monitor and Record Storage Temperature Controls for All Products

• Ensure refrigeration units are calibrated and function correctly.
• Have procedures in place for handling temperature excursions and documenting corrective actions.

4. Organize for Rodent & Pest Control

• Conduct regular inspections for signs of pests.
• Implement pest control measures.
• Seal entry points and maintain a clean environment to discourage pests.

5. Develop a Food Defense Plan

• Restrict access to storage areas and implement security measures.
• Train employees on recognizing and reporting suspicious activities.
• Reference how to develop a food defense plan in line with SQF requirements.

6. Set Up and Manage a Product Expiration Process and Program

• Clearly mark expiration dates and ensure visibility for easy monitoring.
• Establish a robust First-In-First-Out (FIFO) system.
• Regularly check and rotate stock to minimize expired products.

7. Develop and Follow a Cleaning and Sanitization Schedule

• Develop and follow a detailed cleaning schedule for all storage and distribution areas.
• Use approved sanitizers and ensure proper contact times.
• Train staff on proper cleaning procedures and frequency.

8. Provide Employee Training

• Provide comprehensive training on food safety practices, including allergen control and cross-contamination prevention.
• Conduct regular refresher courses to keep employees updated on best practices.
• Document all training sessions and ensure records are up to date.

9. Plan Your Supplier Management Processes

• Verify and audit suppliers to ensure they meet food safety standards.
• Maintain a list of approved suppliers and periodically review their performance.
• Communicate expectations clearly to suppliers regarding allergen information, temperature controls, and product expiration dates.

10. Organize Your Documentation and Record Keeping

• Maintain detailed records of all food safety procedures and activities.
• Keep records of temperature logs, cleaning schedules, pest control measures, and employee training.
• Regularly review records for compliance and identify areas for improvement.

We encourage you to delve into the meticulous details of the SQF Food Safety Code: Storage and Distribution, Edition 9. Our Storage and Distribution Code can be applied to food sector categories for storage and distribution, particularly transportation and distribution of food products.

Implementing the SQF Code in storage and distribution helps your company manage risks associated with the food supply chain. Clear procedures and standards can mitigate incidents that could harm consumers or your business.

SQF Storage and Distribution Code

Additional Resources:

• The free comprehensive SQF Food Safety Code: Storage and Distribution, Edition 9 Checklist is available to download on the right hand side of our code page and serves as your guiding tool, encompassing critical aspects such as allergen control, temperature management, and pest control to safeguard your products and consumer trust.
• Reference how to implement and maintain an allergen control program as per Module 11 of the SQF Code for Storage and Distribution Edition 9.
• You can team up with an SQF Certification Body or Consultant to navigate SQF Certification and maintain excellence in food safety within your storage and distribution facility.