ISO 22000 for dairy supply chain production processes in Panama

Abstract

When addressing the issue of the applicability of ISO 22000 in the dairy supply chain processes in Panama, considering that it is an internationally recognized standard, it establishes the requirements for food safety management systems to ensure food safety throughout the entire supply chain. In the specific case of this study, this standard should be applied to all stages in the supply chain, including primary production, processing, packaging, storage, and distribution. However, this was not observed in the on-site diagnosis. The general objective was to investigate the use of ISO 22000 for dairy production processes in the Panamanian supply chain. Methodologically, it is framed within a qualitative, descriptive-exploratory paradigm, using a phenomenological approach and grounded theory. The actual adoption of ISO 22000 was one of the imperative findings, which includes a risk-based approach, the implementation of prerequisite programs, the establishment of a food safety management system, as well as the conduct of internal and external audits to assess compliance with the established requirements. The application of ISO 22000 in the dairy supply chain in Panama offers several benefits that can be systematized step by step. In conclusion, this standard plays a fundamental role in the Panamanian dairy scenario to ensure food safety, promote the quality of dairy products to international standards, and instill confidence in consumers for the sustainable development of the dairy sector in the country.