Ms Desland believes that the BRCGS standard is comprehensive including meeting an annual audit that can take up to three days.A challenging part of the global standard is the traceability. If there is a report of contamination or a product needs to be recalled the manufacturer needs to identify product locations and ingredient sources, within four hours.
Traceability covers locating the product yet to be despatched, product in transit or where product has arrived at its destination. Other imperatives include where relevant ingredients are stored, or where the waste parts have been disposed of. This includes local as well as international markets. Confidence that the BRCGS standard is maintained is more vital than ever with Bundaberg supplying to over 60 countries; including, Asian, European, American and British markets.
Reaching out to international markets is a fantastic story for a 50-plus year old Queensland favourite; however, having the confidence of Australians is just as important. Bundaberg’s procurement policy states that they look to their local region and country to source their brewing needs. This has resulted in strong working relationships with local growers and transport companies in the Bundaberg region and demonstrates Bundaberg’s important role in supporting the local economy.