In the Houston food industry, a third-party food safety audit isn’t just a formality—it’s a gateway to larger contracts, better brand reputation, and operational integrity. Whether you’re aiming for SQF, GFSI, or another benchmark, audits prove your commitment to safety and compliance.
At JWagstaff & Associates, we help Houston-based manufacturers, processors, and kitchens prepare with confidence.
What Is a Third-Party Food Safety Audit?
A third-party audit is conducted by an accredited external organization to assess your compliance with food safety standards. Common audits include:
- GFSI-recognized schemes (like SQF, BRC, FSSC 22000)
- HACCP program reviews
- Retailer-specific requirements
These audits often determine whether you can sell to large retailers, expand operations, or maintain certification.
Step-by-Step: How to Prepare for a Food Safety Audit
1. Conduct a Gap Assessment
Review your current food safety systems against the audit criteria. Identify non-conformities and high-risk areas.
2. Update Your Food Safety Plan
Ensure your HACCP plan or SQF system is current, verified, and validated. Include critical control points, monitoring logs, and corrective actions.
3. Organize Records
Auditors will review training logs, sanitation records, supplier verification, and traceability data. Make sure documentation is accurate and easily accessible.
4. Prepare Your Team
Train staff on how to speak with auditors, what documentation they may be asked to show, and how to follow SOPs under observation.
5. Conduct a Mock Audit
Work with a local Houston consultant (like JWagstaff) to simulate the audit experience. Identify last-minute issues and rehearse staff responses.
What Auditors Typically Look For
- Compliance with current standards (GFSI, SQF, HACCP, etc.)
- Evidence of training and continuous improvement
- Facility cleanliness and pest control systems
- Well-documented processes and corrective actions
How JWagstaff & Associates Can Help
Based in Houston, our team works directly with your facility to prepare you for third-party food safety audits. Our services include:
- On-site gap assessments
- Mock audits and staff training
- Policy, SOP, and HACCP updates
- Recordkeeping systems setup
We make sure you’re not just audit-ready—you’re confident and in control.
Get Audit-Ready in Houston — Book Your Consultation
If you’re preparing for a third-party food safety audit in Houston, don’t go it alone. Contact JWagstaff & Associates for tailored, hands-on consulting that meets your goals and timeline.