Meatco’s Export Abattoir maintained an A-Grade Status during the annual British Retail Consortium (BRC) Audit that was conducted from 6 to 8 May 2019.

The abattoir was audited based on the revised eight standard requirements released in August 2018.

During the audit, Meatco received eight minor non-conformances, which the Corporation has managed to investigate with the corrective actions submitted and the report closed off on 14 June 2019.

Under the new standards, senior management commitment was one of the key focus areas introduced as part of “continuous improvement”. This means that Meatco will have to place more emphasis on senior management involvement in the production of products. Furthermore, the company will continue with its responsibility to produce a safe, legal and authentic product under the revised version. The authenticity of a product allows for the prevention of food fraud towards clients.

"The new version has also introduced a food safety and quality culture whereby an action plan of activities will be implemented throughout the year, educating employees on product safety and quality. The activities will entail putting up engaging posters around the plant and conducting surveys requiring staff participation and having a toll-free confidential line where staff members can report non-conforming activities,” says Quality Assurance Manager, Marchella Somaes.

"I, therefore, urge our staff members to feel free and come up with suggestions that will assist in improving food safety and maintaining a quality culture at Meatco," she added.

The BRC Audit remains a fundamental accreditation, as it allows Meatco to continue trading with existing markets while opening up possible new marketing opportunities.