Top 5 Food Safety Violations and How to Avoid Them
In today’s high-pressure food production environment, food safety is non-negotiable — not just for consumer protection, but for regulatory compliance, brand reputation, and operational success. At Top Quality Recruitment, we support food manufacturers across North America who expect their teams to meet the highest safety and quality standards.
Whether you're a Plant Manager, QA Lead, or Production Supervisor, avoiding these common violations can help you stay ahead of audits, reduce waste, and prevent costly shutdowns.
1. Improper Employee Hygiene
The Violation: Employees not washing hands, wearing improper PPE, or entering production areas without following sanitation protocols.
How to Avoid It:
Provide consistent GMP and hygiene training, especially for new hires.
Post visible reminders in high-risk zones.
Empower leads and supervisors to hold teams accountable every shift.
✅ TQR Tip: Candidates trained in GMP and HACCP procedures are in high demand — we actively screen for this in all frontline roles.
2. Poor Allergen Control
The Violation: Cross-contact between products containing allergens like dairy, nuts, soy, or gluten.
How to Avoid It:
Use color-coded tools and utensils by allergen category.
Schedule production sequencing to minimize allergen risks.
Implement clear labeling and line clearance protocols.
✅ TQR Tip: Top facilities often request candidates with Allergen Control Training — even for general labor roles.
3. Improper Temperature Control
The Violation: Failure to keep raw, cooked, or perishable foods within regulated temperature zones during storage or transport.
How to Avoid It:
Install and maintain reliable temperature monitoring systems.
Train staff to record and report temperature logs regularly.
Investigate any deviation immediately — no shortcuts.
✅ TQR Tip: We regularly place QA Technicians and Sanitation Leads who are trained to monitor temperature control protocols effectively.
4. Inadequate Cleaning and Sanitation
The Violation: Equipment not being cleaned properly between shifts or products, leading to microbial or chemical contamination.
How to Avoid It:
Implement a validated sanitation schedule and stick to it.
Provide clear checklists for sanitation crews.
Conduct ATP swab tests or microbial testing as verification.
✅ TQR Tip: Our top clients prioritize candidates with previous sanitation experience, especially those familiar with high-acid, RTE, or dairy production.
5. Labeling Errors
The Violation: Products with missing, incorrect, or misleading information — especially related to allergens, expiry dates, or nutrition facts.
How to Avoid It:
Use barcode verification systems and double-check label batches.
Include label reviews as part of final QC checks.
Train staff on the importance of label accuracy — it's not just a paperwork issue.
✅ TQR Tip: Many of our clients have faced costly recalls due to labeling errors. We source QC and Packaging professionals who understand the stakes.
Final Thoughts
Food safety violations aren’t just compliance issues — they’re operational risks that affect your bottom line. At Top Quality Recruitment, we understand what food manufacturing employers need because we work with them daily. We don’t just send resumes — we deliver qualified, safety-minded talent who can step onto the floor and perform from day one.
