Food for thought…

For a food manufacturing company, a product recall is like a potent brew of all the worst kinds of challenges, such as compromised consumer safety, damage to brand reputation, financial losses, legal consequences, supply chain disruptions, and a loss of market share. It’s a nightmare scenario in which the financial burden could threaten the very existence of your business.

So, what do the consequences of product recall look like?

Loss of trust and long-term damage to reputation lead to sales and revenue decline.

When a product is discovered to pose potential harm to consumers, it sparks doubts about the efficacy of safety protocols and quality control measures within a company. In essence, this negative perception conveys a lack of concern on the part of the company regardless of their true intentions, leading consumers to lose faith in the brand. Rebuilding trust becomes a daunting task, requiring significant time and effort to regain the level of consumer confidence necessary for future product acceptance. Unquestionably, the loss of trust inevitably translates into a decline in sales, as customers may gravitate towards rival brands instead.

Bad press can lead to a loss of market share

Unfortunately, product recalls also attract widespread media attention which spreads rapidly through social media platforms and online forums, creating a long-lasting, negative perception of the brand. Once those negative posts and reviews are out there, amplifying consumer dissatisfaction, you can’t get them back in again. Competitors may capitalise on the situation, seizing the opportunity to gain new customers who have lost faith in your products. Then all the money and time that was spent marketing and building a great brand can be wasted by a potential oversight, all in one day.

Loss related to lawsuits

Not only do consumers lose trust, but they also take legal action, which can result in costly settlements and legal fees, all on top of the fines and penalties which a company might face as a result of investigations and audits. On top of this, insurance premiums may increase, to add to the expenses related to notifying consumers, communicating the recall and managing customer inquiries and complaints.

Disruption to day to day overall production

As well as all the negative consequences for the brand, on a day-to-day level in a facility, a sudden halt in production can impact other products that may be produced or packaged alongside it. Even worse, having to remove the offending food product from other points in the distribution can be time-consuming and resource intensive. All of this can disrupt the normal flow of inventory and impact the availability of other products.

Rebuilding a damaged reputation following a product recall takes a lot of time and effort and it’s always better to do everything you can to avoid such an event happening in the first place.

How commercial resin flooring can help to prevent product recall

Resin flooring can play a role in minimising the risk of contamination and product recalls in food and beverage facilities when included as part of a comprehensive food safety program with all the necessary preventive measures and protocols in place to ensure product integrity. Commercial resin flooring provides several key benefits because it’s hygienic, chemical-resistant, anti-slip and durable, and it supports efficient cleaning processes.

Resin flooring has a seamless and non-porous surface

Resin flooring, such as epoxy or polyurethane coatings, creates a seamless and non-porous surface. Unlike traditional flooring materials like tiles or concrete, resin flooring does not have grout lines or joints where dirt, bacteria, or other contaminants can accumulate. The absence of these spaces makes it easier to clean and maintain, reducing the potential for food particles or microbial growth that could lead to contamination.

Resin flooring is resistant to chemicals

As resin flooring systems are typically resistant to chemicals, including cleaning agents, acids, alkalis, and oils commonly used in food processing environments. This resistance helps protect the floor from chemical spills or splashes that could contaminate the food products. It also ensures that the floor surface remains intact and free from degradation or leaching of harmful substances.

Hygienic and Easy to Clean

Resin flooring can be designed to have a smooth, impervious, and easy-to-clean surface. This characteristic prevents the penetration of liquids, oils, or food residues into the floor, minimising the risk of contamination. Regular cleaning and sanitisation procedures can be performed more effectively on resin flooring, as there are no gaps or porous areas where contaminants can hide or thrive.

Antimicrobial Properties

Resin flooring systems can be formulated with antimicrobial additives or treatments. These additives help inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms on the floor surface. By reducing the presence of harmful microorganisms, resin flooring contributes to a more hygienic environment and lowers the risk of cross-contamination.

Impact and Abrasion Resistance

Resin flooring is known for its durability and resistance to impact and abrasion. They can withstand heavy foot traffic and thermal shock without significant wear or deterioration. This resilience prevents the formation of cracks, chips, or fissures in the floor surface, which can harbor bacteria or provide pathways for contaminants to enter the food production area. A robust and intact resin floor maintains a barrier against potential contaminants, supporting food safety protocols.

Slip Resistance

Resin flooring systems can be designed to provide slip resistance, even in wet or greasy conditions. This reduces the likelihood of accidents and spills that could lead to food contamination. A slip-resistant surface enhances safety for workers and minimises the risk of products coming into contact with the floor during handling or processing.

When it comes to protecting your food manufacturing company from the dire consequences of product recalls, partnering with the right experts is paramount. At TPS360, we have been proud members of FeRFA, the Resin Flooring Association for over 14 years. Our commitment to excellence is evident through our MD’s active involvement in the FeRFA council and our SHE Director’s participation in the FeRFA Health and Safety work group. With a solid 15 years of trading under our belt, we have garnered a reputation as your trusted partner in the industry.

With a wealth of industry knowledge and experience, we have established direct collaborations with blue-chip food manufacturing companies and Tier 1 Main Contractors. Our commitment to safety and quality is reflected in our SafeContractor and Constructionline Gold accreditations. Additionally, as members of the Food and Drink forum, we are deeply engaged in staying at the forefront of industry developments and best practices.

So, when it comes to safeguarding your brand, reputation, and bottom line, choose a partner who understands the unique challenges faced by food manufacturing companies. Choose TPS360 for unrivaled expertise, unwavering dedication, and a track record of excellence. Together, we can fortify your operations, protect your consumers, and ensure a resilient future for your business. Contact us today to explore how we can be your ally in ensuring the utmost safety and success of your food manufacturing endeavors.