SITCO Leading Inspections helps reduce global food losses with world-class services

As much as 50% of all food produced globally is lost; this equates to almost two billion tonnes of produce not reaching plates. These staggering statistics were revealed recently by the UK Institution for Mechanical Engineers (IME) and emphasised the enormous strain such losses place on food security.

The issue has become of global concern, prompting the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization and the UN Environmental Programme to launch a global awareness campaign in 2012. The majority of food loss occurs during food production – harvesting, processing and distribution, while wastage is more strongly associated with retailer and consumer behaviour.

The IME’s report identified poor practices in harvesting, storage and transportation as major culprits in this process. But these can be prevented by implementing sound and scientific quality controls – services SITCO Leading Inspections specialise in. Through comprehensive verification, certification and quality assurance, the company ensures best practices are followed by producers to put premium product on the consumer’s plate.

SITCO Leading Inspections is a global, independent, third-party inspection and verification business, specialising in fruit and vegetables and agri commodities. The company provides innovative services and solutions which are customised according to client requirements. Constant and real-time feedback enables producers to take quick corrective action, reducing food and financial losses.

Through its expert offerings, the company supplies a variety of clients, including retailers, importers, producers and export agents, with an extensive range of fresh produce services, including quality and quantity control at every step of the product life cycle:

Orchards
Ensuring an optimum picking window for the best shelf-life

Pack houses
Intake inspections
Sorting evaluation

Orchard run (culling factors)
Classes per table

Packline inspection

Packed cartons
Palletising
Quality of packed cartons

Cold storage
Ensuring optimum storage conditions
Monitoring correct handling of the ‘Cold Chain’
Ensuring correct storage and shipping temperature to maintain product quality and condition
Monitoring the ageing and shelf-life potential

Export ports

With a strong presence in Africa, Europe and Asia, SITCO Leading Inspections is able to assist clients across the globe in their quest to optimise quality and quantity, and minimise losses.

For more information:
Jacques de Kock
SITCO Leading Inspections
Tel. +27 21 974 1933/+27 82 343 4217
E-mail: info@sitcoinspect.com
www.sitcoinspect.com
Video: www.video.sitcoinspect.co.za