TL;DR: Ahead of a pivotal reapproval inspection audit by a Mexican contingent for British pork, UK exporters convened for a workshop organised by AHDB and UKECP. The session, held on 19 March 2024, featured presentations on food safety, audit preparations, and insights from previous audits, receiving high praise from industry participants for its networking opportunities and valuable information sharing.
As the UK pork industry braces for a significant reapproval inspection audit from Mexico, efforts are underway to ensure that exporters are well-prepared for the scrutinising process.
In anticipation of the two-week audit, the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) and the UK Export Certification Partnership (UKECP) facilitated a workshop aimed at arming exporters with the necessary knowledge and strategies for success.
Held on Tuesday, 19 March 2024, the workshop served as a vital platform for discussion and learning, with contributions from the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and seasoned industry professionals.
The session covered essential topics such as food safety audit preparations and gleaned insights from past inward missions from Mexico, providing a well-rounded perspective on what to expect and how to excel.
The feedback from attendees underscored the value of the workshop, highlighting not only the richness of the information shared but also the opportunities it presented for networking and collaboration among industry peers.
Barry McKillion from Sofina Foods lauded the session as a significant help, noting the unique opportunity it provided for engaging on key export topics.
Similarly, Anthony Pargeter of Pilgrim’s Pride Ltd. found the workshop to be instrumental in preparing his team for the upcoming audit, thanks to the comprehensive insights shared by various sectors involved in pork exports.
The practical advice and experiences recounted during the workshop were particularly beneficial for attendees looking to navigate the complexities of international trade and regulatory compliance.
George Taylor of Quality Pork Processors Ltd. also expressed gratitude for the informative and engaging session, emphasising the competitive advantage gained through participation.
The consensus among participants was clear: the workshop not only equipped them with crucial audit preparation knowledge but also fostered a sense of community and shared purpose within the UK pork export sector.
As the date of the Mexican audit approaches, the UK pork industry stands united and better prepared, thanks to the collaborative efforts of AHDB, UKECP, and the engaged community of exporters who are committed to maintaining and expanding their presence in the international market.
