Five Columbian Logistics Network facilities have been recognized by the Safe Quality Food (SQF) Institute with the Level 2 (SQF 2000) SQF Certification. SQF is recognized by retailers and foodservice providers around the world who require a rigorous, credible food safety management system. This certification is a globally recognized achievement that reflects a company’s commitment to food safety, quality and legality.
Administered by the Food Marketing Institute, the qualification process for this certification consists of two audits; a desktop audit which reviews company safety policies and procedures in regards to food safety, along with a facility audit which covers sanitation, plant cleanliness, personnel practices and the enforcement and roll out of the safety procedures. After completion of the two audits, Columbian finished with a total score of 95 points out of a possible 100. The Level 2 certificate endorses these 5 facilities with a certified Hazardous Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) plan that is bench marked by the Global Food Safety Initiative.
Columbian’s General Manager, Jim Gadziemski says, “This is a huge step forward for Columbian in a sense that less than a year ago, three of our facilities earned the SQF Level 1 certification, now five of our facilities are SQF Level 2 certified. I think it speaks to our commitment to food safety and continuous improvement.”
Columbian Logistics Network isn’t going to rest on these laurels. Elsewhere in the company, there are multiple initiatives taking place to ensure that Columbian stays at the forefront of the food safety industry. The 36th St Facility recently passed a customer requested audit from International Food Standards (IFS). Greg Risk, the Facility Manager in Melvindale, recently completed his Food Defense Coordinator training. In Grand Rapids, Eric Bentley and Chris Aldridge are working on their Food Defense Coordinator training. Once Eric and Chris complete this coursework, all of Columbian’s operations management team will be certified Food Defense Coordinators.
