The continuing COVID-19 pandemic is testing the resources and emergency plans of food and beverage processors across the industry. In this Q&A, Phil Kafarakis, president of the Specialty Food Association, addresses some of the challenges being faced by processors and how they are responding.
As food and beverage processors deal with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, they face dual challenges when it comes to training: keeping the current workforce safe and training new employees they’re hiring to meet a sustained, nationwide surge in demand.
When it comes to traditional food and beverage production, processors work to establish standardized processes and procedures that wouldn’t have to vary much if an ingredient, such as olive oil, was switched to a different supplier. Developing legal cannabis edibles and beverages, however, is a different story.
Whole Foods Market has recalled 365 Everyday Value White Corn Tortilla Chips because the product may contain undeclared milk that was not listed on the product label.
Gravel Ridge Farms has recalled its Cage Free Large Eggs due to potential contamination with Salmonella. The recall was initiated due to reported illnesses confirmed at locations using the eggs.