Getting your business ready for an NVWA inspection
A visit from the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) can be quite exciting for companies. However, with proper preparation, you can ensure a flawless audit. In this blog, we discuss what the NVWA does, what it checks for and how you can prepare.
Who is the NVWA and what does it do?
The NVWA is a government agency that oversees the safety of food, consumer products, animal welfare and public health. Their goal is to minimize risks to humans, animals and nature through inspections and controls. The NVWA conducts inspections of businesses in various sectors, including the food industry, retail, hospitality and health care.
What does the NVWA check for?
In product safety, the NVWA checks for, among other things:
- Chemical composition: Are the products free of harmful substances such as heavy metals, pesticides or other banned chemicals?
- Physical properties: Do the products meet the requirements in terms of strength, fragility and other physical properties that may pose a hazard?
- Safety: Have appropriate risk assessments been applied?
- Labeling and packaging: Are products correctly labeled and packaged according to regulations?
How can you be prepared?
Proper preparation for an NVWA inspection can make all the difference. Here are some steps you can take:
- Conduct self-inspection: Conduct regular internal audits to identify and address potential risks. In doing so, check for compliance with chemical, physical and microbiological safety requirements.
- Documentation in order: Ensure that all necessary documents, such as product analyses, safety sheets and registration forms, are current and available. A well-documented system helps demonstrate compliance during an inspection.
- Training and awareness: Train your staff on the relevant rules and procedures to ensure everyone is prepared for an inspection. Regular training ensures that employees stay abreast of the latest laws and regulations.
- Use external expertise: Engage experts to review your processes and advise on possible improvements. Outside consultants can help you identify weaknesses and implement best practices.
At Instrux, we offer comprehensive support to help you prepare for an NVWA inspection. Our services include process analysis, risk assessments, training and guidance during inspection. Our experts have years of experience in various industries and can help you meet all legal requirements.
Interested?
Are you interested in our support in preparing for an NVWA inspection? Contact us without obligation and find out how we can help you keep your business compliant and secure.