Food safety leadership is not just about setting policies and procedures—it's about leading by example. Over the years, I’ve taken a proactive stance in ensuring that leadership is directly involved in food safety training and education. It’s not enough for executives to simply introduce a trainer and leave the room. Their presence sends a powerful message to the entire workforce: food safety is a top priority, from the top down. This is why I’ve made it a point to include in my contracts that executives must remain present during training sessions.
Think about the optics and the message that leadership engagement sends. When executives are visibly committed to food safety, it demonstrates that the organization values these practices at every level. It shows that food safety is not just the responsibility of front-line workers but is a shared commitment across the organization. This level of engagement helps build a stronger food safety culture, where every employee feels accountable and invested in maintaining high standards.
In the aftermath of major outbreaks or recalls, companies often focus on retraining front-line workers. While this is necessary, it is equally important to ask about the training and certification of leadership. Leaders must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to guide their teams through crises and to implement proactive measures that prevent incidents. True food safety culture is established when leaders are not only knowledgeable but actively involved in the day-to-day practices that keep food safe.
Activism in food safety means pushing for these standards and holding everyone accountable, from the CEO to the newest hire. It means advocating for a culture where food safety is everyone’s responsibility. By ensuring that leaders are not only present but engaged, we can foster an environment where food safety is truly prioritized and practiced at every level.
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