1. Raw materials management

Close collaboration with the supplier is required in order to achieve high raw material quality. This includes, among other things, focused supplier selection with regard to technical advice and competence, delivery reliability, punctuality and the delivery status of the raw goods. WIBERG favours certified companies: We qualify suppliers via regular supplier audits, or we may demand a self-assessment with different focal points (for example, product safety). We routinely perform internal supplier evaluations. Business contacts spanning many years and regular exchange of information with our main suppliers contribute significantly to joint developments in product optimisation and process improvement.

The required raw material quality is defined for product development and raw materials management, samples are requested via our purchasing department and, if the quality lab gives a positive rating, a purchase order is issued.

2. Quality checks

• Every goods receipt is subjected to a stringent goods receipt inspection in line with defined inspection plans (DIN 10220 or advanced sampling plans).
• The raw material is only approved once the hygiene requirements for goods supply have been met and positive results have been obtained from the chemical, sensory and microbiological quality checks (guidance and warning levels, as well as WIBERG’s own quality specifications). Furthermore, the supplier is requested to provide additional analysis certificates for different raw materials.
• Essential storage conditions, for example low humidity or a cool temperature, are defined for the relevant products. We constantly monitor adherence to these specifications.
• The production process is monitored by different analytical and sensory interim product tests; the process itself is controlled by detailed production specifications. Prior to shipping, the packaged goods are again subjected to a weight check and a stringent visual inspection.

All test results are documented and managed in a laboratory data information system. Production planning and control is EDI-based.

3. No cross-contamination or foreign objects

• Protective filtering, magnetic separators, metal detectors
  Before the raw materials are used to produce a WIBERG spice blend, they go through highly efficient multiple-stage purification steps and protective filtering using different filter sizes and magnetic separators. Magnetic separators and metal detectors are integrated into the production process as required.
• Machine cleaning and maintenance
  Our quality management system includes regulations on preventative machine maintenance and cleaning or disinfection. After each step in the production process, product-related, documented cleaning measures are carried out, particularly to avoid product carryovers and cross-contamination.
• Personal hygiene, different hygiene zones
  The production area is divided into different hygiene zones. Clear requirements have been defined for the individual hygiene zones. There are also a number of easy-to-understand rules about wearing work clothes, hairnets, makeup and so on, as well as eating and drinking, cleaning and disinfecting equipment and floors. These specifications are liable to constant monitoring. Our employees receive regular training on hygiene issues.

4. High-Quality Packaging

Due to the product protection that they offer, polythene composite sheets are the preferred packaging: Product protection through light-impermeability, moisture block and flavour seal. This prevents other aromas from getting through. The packaging is especially lightweight.