DOST-PSTC Cavite trains Purefoods-Hormel Company, Inc. – Cavite Plant employees on HACCP

On April 20-21, 2021, the Department of Science and Technology – CALABARZON (DOST-CALABARZON), through its Provincial Science and Technology Center in Cavite (DOST-PSTC Cavite) conducted an online food safety seminar-training to 30 employees of Purefoods-Hormel Company, Inc. – Cavite Plant (Purefoods) via Zoom. Through a combination of lectures and workshops, DOST-CALABARZON Food Safety Team members, Mr. Jake Lloyd Peña and Ms. Jenny Bronburac, trained the participants on Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) during the two-day activity.

DOST-PSTC Cavite Provincial Director Engr. Raul D. Castañeda opened the event with a brief message on the importance of having a food management system, especially in food manufacturing firms, such as Purefoods. He also acknowledged the participants, comprised of production managers and engineers for Purefoods, for joining the activity, as it is equally important for the managers as well as the staff to learn about food management practices, including the HACCP.

Mr. Peña and Ms. Bronburac alternated in detailing the HACCP and recommending ways to prevent, control, and reduce hazards in all stages of food production: from purchase, receipt, and storage to production, handling, and packaging. The speakers together with DOST-PSTC Cavite staff moderated workshops and group discussions of four clusters of Purefoods employees.

Ms. Heidi Chang, Human Resources Associate, on behalf of Purefoods, thanked the DOST-CALABARZON for their assistance in equipping its employees, specifically its newly-hired staff, with the necessary skills to ensure food safety in its production processes. Mr. Matthew Henry Camitan presented to Ms. Chang and Ms. Erisse Joyce Magnaye, Purefoods Human Resource Assistant, a certificate of completion for the active participation of the attendees in the seminar-training.

Despite the pandemic, DOST-CALABARZON has adapted means to make its services accessible in the new normal. In line with its mission to ensure compliance with food safety standards, DOST-CALABARZON organizes webinars on food safety. To request similar assistance, email dost4a.ord@gmail.com. (Krizzia Mei C. Esperanza)