Campden BRI targets microbiological skills gap
Tesco, Sainsbury and 2 Sisters Food Group are among the firms contributing to a report published by Campden BRI designed to tackle the lack of training to fight microbiological food contamination.
The food science institutes head of membership and training, Bertrand Emond said it was very concerning that many of its members were reporting a lack of practical experience in microbiologists, technologists and managers.
The problem even affected some employees that were already established in the field, Bertrand added.
Campden BRI compiled its report, Practical microbiology training needs of the food and drink manufacturing and retail sectors, in consultation with retailers and manufacturers. They ranged from Tesco, Sainsbury, Marks & Spencer to 2 Sisters Food Group and Greencore.
It will be used to inform the development and content of relevant training and related continuing professional development. It would also help equip other training providers to deliver the necessary skills to industry recruits.
Head of Greencore technical services, Margaret McPheat said – We welcome this report and see it as a significant step forward in improving the microbiological knowledge and skills base for the worldwide food and drink industry. Focused, specialist microbiological training that equips staff to do their jobs across the diverse range of roles within food manufacture and retailing is not a – nice to have – it is absolutely essential.
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