Barry Callebaut has risen to the task of keeping its people and products safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, relying on established protocols and implementing new ones.

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented challenges to all food manufacturers, from anticipating supply issues to instituting new, even stricter safety protocols. Blommer Chocolate Co. was ready to meet these challenges head on.

Atkinson Candy Co. has achieved certification under the Safe Quality Food (SQF) Program at its facility in Lufkin, Texas.

While food manufacturing has been deemed “essential infrastructure,” allowing it to continue, the COVID-19 pandemic has prompted Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Co. to adopt even stricter safety protocols. There’s also the challenge of meeting payroll in the face of canceled or delayed product orders. 

One of the most notable consequences of the federal government shutdown was that it led to fewer food recalls. Unfortunately, that wasn’t because the food being produced during that time was safer — it was because there was less oversight. 

The confectionery sector presents multiple quality control challenges to manufacturers, and product inspection systems ensure that only items in perfect condition reach the retail supply chain. 

Round Hill Investments acquired New England Confectionery Co. (NECCO) for $17.3 million in a sale that closed Thursday. 

Lake Champlain Chocolates, a Vermont-based artisan chocolatier, has earned a Safe Quality Food (SQF) Level 2 Certification, meaning it has met requirements for one of the food industry’s leading food safety and quality designations.