Implementing FMEA (Failure Mode and Effect Analysis) in a canned corn manufacturing industry: a case study

Abstract

Assuring quality and food safety is one of the biggest challenges for many companies, as these issues affect the sustainability of the business and brands reputation. By reviewing the literature across this subject, it was identified lack of studies focused on applying risk assessments tools in the food industry. This study aims to describe the implementation of Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) tool for identifying potential risks and how to prevent them, in order to assure regulatory, operational and quality requirements in a corn food plant. This paper follows a case study approach, based on a qualitative methodology. During the execution of FMEA, the hazards and possible mitigation controls were identified to guarantee the food safety and quality of the products related to this study. The results provide evidence of how FMEA can be effective in a food industry, by showing the vulnerabilities of the production flow, what kind of controls to implement and how to prioritize actions. For the company where the case study was conducted, this tool contributed to mapping and managing the risks found. This case study can be followed by other companies and different processing technologies, extrapolating the food industry. Palavras-chave