Food safety is more than a legal requirement—it’s the backbone of consumer trust and brand credibility. Yet, many food companies, despite having protocols in place, make avoidable mistakes that compromise food safety.
Here are the top 10 food safety mistakes your company might be making—and what you can do to fix them.
1. Neglecting Regular Staff Training
Why it’s a mistake: Employees unaware of hygiene protocols or handling procedures are a major risk.
Fix: Implement ongoing food safety training programs tailored to roles and regularly updated with new regulations.
2. Poor Personal Hygiene Practices
Why it’s a mistake: Improper handwashing, dirty uniforms, or untrimmed nails are simple but dangerous oversights.
Fix: Enforce strict personal hygiene policies with daily checks and reminders at entry points.
3. Incomplete or Outdated Documentation
Why it’s a mistake: Missing or outdated records can result in non-compliance during audits and hinder traceability.
Fix: Keep documentation of HACCP, cleaning schedules, supplier approvals, and training logs up to date.
4. Ignoring Cross-Contamination Risks
Why it’s a mistake: Allergen cross-contact and raw-to-ready food contamination can lead to serious health risks.
Fix: Separate tools, color-code equipment, and implement allergen control plans across the facility.
5. Improper Temperature Control
Why it’s a mistake: Many pathogens grow between 5°C and 60°C—the “danger zone.”
Fix: Monitor cold chain logistics and use calibrated thermometers to ensure safe storage and transport.
6. Lack of Preventive Maintenance
Why it’s a mistake: Equipment failure can lead to foreign object contamination or uncleanable surfaces.
Fix: Follow a preventive maintenance schedule and ensure all machinery is food-grade and easily cleanable.
7. Not Conducting Internal Audits
Why it’s a mistake: Relying only on external audits can result in hidden non-conformities.
Fix: Perform regular internal audits to proactively identify and correct issues.
8. Failing to Control Pests
Why it’s a mistake: Rodents and insects are a red flag for contamination and regulatory violations.
Fix: Partner with licensed pest control services and conduct routine inspections.
9. Overlooking Supplier Verification
Why it’s a mistake: Using unverified suppliers introduces unknown risks into your production line.
Fix: Implement a supplier approval program with audits, certifications, and COAs (Certificates of Analysis).
10. Not Updating the Food Safety Management System (FSMS)
Why it’s a mistake: Static FSMS can’t address evolving risks, trends, or regulatory changes.
Fix: Review and update your FSMS annually or whenever there is a process change or new regulation.
Final Thoughts
Even small food safety mistakes can snowball into major crises. Prevention, continuous training, proper documentation, and proactive audits are essential to build a strong food safety culture. By recognizing and correcting these top 10 food safety mistakes, food companies can safeguard their brand, protect consumers, and ensure regulatory compliance.
Need Help Improving Your Food Safety System?
At SAFO Consultancy, we specialize in building compliant, effective, and custom-tailored food safety management systems. Reach out to us at info@safoconsultancy.com or call +94 77 3611640 to schedule a free consultation.