Perform SQFI Food Manufacturing Audit using eAuditor
SQFI Food Manufacturing Audit is a comprehensive assessment based on the Safe Quality Food Institute (SQFI) standards. It evaluates food manufacturing facilities to ensure they meet rigorous food safety and quality management requirements. The audit covers critical areas such as hazard analysis, risk control, sanitation, traceability, supplier management, and regulatory compliance. Its goal is to verify that manufacturers consistently produce safe, high-quality food products while maintaining continuous improvement and meeting industry best practices.
Performing an SQFI Food Manufacturing Audit using eAuditor offers a detailed and systematic method for assessing a food manufacturing facility’s adherence to the Safe Quality Food Institute (SQFI) standards. This audit is vital for ensuring that the facility maintains high standards of food safety, quality management, and regulatory compliance, helping to safeguard consumers and enhance brand trust. Leveraging eAuditor’s digital platform transforms the audit process into an efficient, transparent, and data-driven activity, enabling real-time documentation, evidence collection, and corrective action tracking.
-
Preparation Phase: In-Depth Planning and Setup
-
Define Audit Scope, Edition, and Objectives
Start by clearly defining the audit scope based on the relevant SQF Code edition applicable to your facility, such as Edition 9 for Food Manufacturing. Identify the specific modules and processes to be audited, including raw material sourcing, processing lines, packaging, storage, and distribution. Set objectives to evaluate compliance, identify risks, and improve food safety management systems.
-
Develop a Customized, Detailed Digital Checklist in eAuditor
Using eAuditor’s flexible platform, build a comprehensive checklist tailored to the SQF Code requirements. Break down the audit into sections such as:
- Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP)
- Prerequisite programs (cleaning, sanitation, pest control)
- Process controls (temperature, metal detection)
- Documentation and record-keeping
- Supplier and subcontractor management
- Employee training and hygiene
- Product traceability and recall procedures
This checklist should include measurable questions, rating scales, and fields for comments and attachments.
-
Select Qualified Auditors and Coordinate Audit Logistics
Assign auditors trained and certified in SQF auditing to ensure professional and knowledgeable assessments. Schedule audit dates in coordination with facility management, and ensure all relevant documentation, personnel, and access to operational areas are prepared.
-
Execution Phase: Thorough On-Site Assessment
-
Comprehensive Inspection of Facility and Operations
Auditors conduct an exhaustive review of the facility’s food safety systems and operational procedures. Using eAuditor’s mobile app, auditors walk through production lines, storage areas, and hygiene stations, assessing compliance with SQFI requirements such as proper sanitation, allergen controls, equipment maintenance, and pest management.
-
Review Critical Documentation and Records
Verify that HACCP plans are current and correctly implemented. Examine records including cleaning logs, temperature monitoring, corrective actions from previous audits, supplier certifications, and employee training records. Cross-check physical conditions with documented procedures.
-
Capture Real-Time Observations and Multimedia Evidence
Audit findings, whether compliant or non-compliant, are recorded directly in eAuditor. Photographs of issues like equipment malfunctions, contamination risks, or poor hygiene practices can be attached for visual evidence. Detailed comments clarify observations and provide context for non-conformities.
-
Classify and Prioritize Non-Conformances
Each non-compliance is classified by severity—critical, major, or minor—based on the potential impact on food safety. This classification helps prioritize which issues require immediate corrective action and which can be addressed during routine improvements.
-
Reporting Phase: Clear, Actionable Documentation
-
Automated Generation of Detailed Audit Reports
eAuditor instantly compiles all data into a structured report that highlights compliance levels, non-conformances, observations, and recommendations. These reports can be customized to suit internal needs or certification body requirements.
-
Communicate Findings to Stakeholders
The audit report is shared with quality managers, production supervisors, and senior leadership to ensure everyone is informed of current compliance status and areas needing attention. It also supports communication with external certification bodies during recertification processes.
- Secure Digital Record Keeping
All audit documentation is stored securely on eAuditor’s cloud platform. This centralized storage facilitates easy retrieval for internal reviews, future audits, or regulatory inspections and ensures proof of due diligence.
- Follow-Up Phase: Effective Corrective Action and Continuous Improvement
- Assign Corrective Actions with Accountability
Using eAuditor’s task management tools, corrective actions are assigned to responsible personnel with defined deadlines. Progress can be tracked in real time to ensure timely resolution.
-
Conduct Follow-Up or Verification Audits
Re-audits or targeted follow-ups verify that corrective measures have been implemented effectively and prevent the recurrence of issues. These checks help maintain continuous compliance with SQF standards.
- Analyze Trends to Improve Processes
Aggregate audit data over multiple inspections can reveal patterns or recurring issues. This insight supports data-driven decisions for process improvements, staff training enhancements, and strengthening food safety culture.
Summary
Using eAuditor to perform an SQFI Food Manufacturing Audit transforms traditional paper-based inspections into a highly efficient, transparent, and comprehensive process. It ensures rigorous evaluation of food safety and quality management practices, provides real-time evidence collection and reporting, facilitates corrective action tracking, and supports continuous improvement — all essential for maintaining SQF certification and ensuring safe, high-quality food products.