When it comes to the supply chain, the food industry is one that has the least amount of visibility. Understandably, most food products are perishable and require timely shipping in order to remain viable for human consumption. Any time there is a claim or a recall, the manufacturer ends up footing the bill which can result in a high revenue loss.
The Food Supply Chain Needs Visibility
There are ways to help keep deliveries on time. However, the technology that makes the information accessible for all can be too costly for smaller chains. There are plenty of food manufacturers who have chosen to use a 3PL instead of arranged shipments.
Properly Delivered Quality Foodstuffs
Every type of food, be it frozen, fresh, canned, or even raw, has a firm sell-by date. Each type also has a specific way in which is must be transported and handled. All customers want food that looks good and tastes fresh. In addition, the longer the shelf life available, the more attractive it will be for your customers. When you have higher visibility in your shipping chain, you will have a better understanding of the quality of your products. As a result, you can maintain customer satisfaction.
The Food Safety Modernization Act & Recalls
Increasing recalls and FSMA have added pressure for visibility in the food industry. Any time food is not handled in a safe manner, penalties can be brought to bear. Aside from the potential to face criminal charges, bad publicity due to recall is a real possibility. Most companies who suffer a recall, even on a small portion of their products, can expect to have a minimum of $10 million in damages due to the cost of dealing with the issue.
Why Food Supply Chain Visibility Is Important
Visibility in the food supply chain is extremely important. For many years, it has been a desire among business owners but it is fast becoming an essential part of daily operations. With the concerns for public health at an all-time high, tracking shipments of perishables is critical. Tracking and high visibility allow decisions to be made that will ensure the food is delivered on time and in good condition. Big brands are no longer sticking to manual processing and tracking. Instead, technology and social tracking are being used to keep an eye on products in real-time. End to end visibility is critical, but it also comes with a hefty price tag.
Shippers are in need of reliable strategic vendors. In addition, those vendors must offer much-needed tools that allow full visibility in the food industry. Finding vendors who have these tools can be difficult. They also need to offer rates to allow shippers to remain competitive in the market. One way to limit cost is by outsourcing to a 3PL for transport and technology needs.
How 3PLs Technology Helps With Visibility
Shippers in the food industry who are outsourcing to 3PL companies are able to lower the stress of moving products from one place to another. Not only do they vet the carriers in the network, but they also make sure those carrying the products are properly trained and experienced. This allows for automation of basic and complex workflow, end to end tracking, and collaboration with each partner along the supply chain route. One of the main tools in their arsenal is a Transportation Management System. This allows businesses to gain viability in the food supply chain. Depending on the level of need, aside from transportation, even sourcing can be managed if that is what your company needs to be effective.
What can Fortress Nutrition LLC do for you?
Rest assured that you’re in good hands with Fortress Nutrition. To learn more about how we tailor our blending, ingredient sourcing, logistics, consumer packaging, and other services to meet customer needs, and to find out how we can partner with you to ensure compliance with new GMO laws, contact us today.