The significance of food safety culture in the food industry is becoming increasingly recognized. This presentation will explore the multifaceted aspects of food safety culture, including its definition, importance, and the key elements that contribute to its development and sustainability.

The discussion will commence with an overview of food safety culture, defining it as the collective behaviour and commitment of an organization to food safety practices. The importance of fostering a positive food safety culture will be emphasized, highlighting how it can lead to a reduction in the incidence of foodborne illnesses, enhanced compliance with regulatory requirements, and improved overall business performance.

The essential components of a robust food safety culture will be examined, encompassing leadership commitment, employee training and empowerment, communication, and continuous improvement. The role of leadership in setting the tone and expectations for food safety will be emphasized, along with practical strategies for engaging employees at all levels to assume responsibility for food safety.

The talk will also address common challenges faced by the food industry in building and maintaining a food safety culture, such as resistance to change, resource constraints, and varying levels of food safety literacy among employees. Solutions and best practices will be proposed, drawing on case studies and real-world examples from leading food companies that have successfully implemented robust food safety cultures.

Finally, the presentation will outline the benefits of a strong food safety culture, not only in terms of public health and safety but also in enhancing consumer trust, brand reputation, and market competitiveness. Attendees will gain valuable insights and practical tools to assess and improve the food safety culture within their own organizations, ultimately contributing to a safer and more reliable food supply chain.

Houda Reggad

Director of Quality Assurance

La Tourangelle

2025 Programme