When local artisan company Chocolate F/X needed to broaden its reach to a larger clientele, it needed a globally recognized food safety program and sought the help of the Canadian Food & Wine Institute (CFWI) Innovation Centre for their quality assurance expertise.
The chocolatier creates an array of more than 85 chocolate products for both their retail chocolate factory in St. David’s and as custom orders for clients. All their products are crafted by hand at their facility, a former canning factory that has been restored and refurbished. The popular tourist company offers guided tours giving guests a chance to see the chocolate-making process.
In order to expand their business by taking on larger private label clients, Chocolate F/X required a functional HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) system, considered one of the most universally recognized food safety programs in the industry, but the company lacked the expertise and associated costs to achieve this on its own.
Chocolate FX factory, where more than 85 chocolate products are created.
The CFWI Innovation Centre research team reviewed the facility, its existing documentation, and record-keeping practices and then developed Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), a HACCP plan, and various customized templates, which have enabled the company to move closer to receiving Safe Quality Food (SQF) certification. Guidance was also given to Chocolate F/X staff on effective implementation of the SQF program.
Results of the project allow the company to grow its business and prove that the highest possible standards are followed in the production, processing, preparation, and handling of food products.
To learn more about CFWI Innovation Centre projects, visit the website.
