Quality Control Guide
Before Packaging Checklist
Before anything is sealed, run this checklist. Its job is to catch the two most common packaging failures before they happen: food that was not actually dry, and packaging that was not ready. It is printable, so keep a copy at the packaging station.
See it visually: the short visual checklistsRun this checklist on every batch before anything is sealed. Confirm each item, then package promptly.
The Quality-Control Principle
Quality control connects the food, the process and the record: batches are dried, checked, identified, packaged and documented so results are repeatable and problems are findable.
The Checklist
Confirm every item before you seal the first package:
- Food appears completely dry, including the largest and densest pieces.
- Largest / densest pieces checked from more than one tray.
- No cold or frozen centers detected in any checked piece.
- Product free of visible moisture, wet spots or clumping.
- Packaging area clean, dry and free of clutter.
- Packaging materials dry (bags, jars, lids not humid or damp).
- Correct bags or jars ready for the product.
- Oxygen absorbers prepared if they will be used.
- Package labels correct for the product and batch.
- Batch ID recorded on the record and ready for the package.
If Anything Fails a Check
Do not package the batch until the failing item is resolved. Food with any doubt of dryness gets more dry time. A dirty or humid packaging area gets cleaned or moved. A missing batch ID gets created before sealing. Guidance lives in Dryness, Packaging Hygiene and Batch Identification.
Package Promptly After the Checks
Once the checklist passes, package promptly: dry food absorbs moisture from humid air quickly, and every minute of exposure is avoidable moisture. See Moisture Exposure.
Batch Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Why check the largest pieces?
The largest and densest pieces dry last and are where hidden moisture hides. Checking surface pieces alone can miss a cold or wet center inside a thick piece.
Should I always use this checklist?
It is worth running on every batch, whether you write it down or check it mentally. The short version: dry, clean, ready, labeled, recorded.
Key Takeaways
- Confirm full dryness on the largest, densest pieces before packaging.
- Verify the packaging area and materials are clean and dry.
- Have bags, absorbers and labels ready before the cycle ends.
- Record the batch ID before the first package is sealed.
Related Guides
Continue through the Quality Control Center with these related guides.