Audit Validates Food Bank’s Safety Programs
By MARIJO MARTINEC
Associate Director, Food Bank of Northern Indiana
SOUTH BEND — The Food Bank of Northern Indiana scored a 905/1000 under the requirements of the AIB International Consolidated Standards for food distribution centers during an inspection for food safety and handling Dec. 17, 2015.
The rigorous audit included review of annual operational methods and personnel practices, maintenance for food safety, cleaning practices, integrated pest management and food safety and prerequisite programs.
The Feeding America member contract, a network of more than 200 food banks across the United States, calls for all member operated facilities to pass a food safety audit conducted by AIB International by March 31. A passing score is in the 700s.
Feeding America and its member food banks are committed to providing those in need of food assistance access to safe, wholesome food.
“As the landscape of the product mix continues to change, it compels us to maintain more sophisticated food safety practices related to how food is handled through our entire supply chain.” Milt Lee, CEO and executive director said. “The results of this audit is a testament to not only our staff commitment but Feeding America’s consistent approach to evaluation and capacity building.”
“We congratulate the Food Bank of Northern Indiana on passing their recent AIB food safety scored audit,” Kris Warren, director or compliance and capability, Feeding America, added. “This achievement is reflective the Food Bank’s commitment to maintaining a high standard of food safety within their operations.”
Through its network of 165 member agencies, the food bank distributed 6.6 million pounds of food in 2015.
The Food Bank of Northern Indiana works in partnership with the community to feed the hungry, increase awareness of the effects of hunger and lead programs designed to alleviate hunger. The Food Bank of Northern Indiana serves Elkhart, Kosciusko, LaPorte, Marshall, Starke and St. Joseph Counties and is a member of Feeding America, Feeding Indiana’s Hungry, United Way and the National Diaper Bank Network.