What Are the Most Overlooked GMP Requirements in Small Food Factories?

Small food factories often believe they’re meeting Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) just because they follow basic hygiene and keep the place clean.

However, GMP compliance involves more than visible cleanliness — and missing certain details could lead to audit failures or even food safety incidents.

🚫 Commonly Overlooked GMP Requirements

• Incomplete Documentation

  • SOPs are outdated or missing signatures

  • Records are filled in after the task (not in real time)

  • No proof of batch traceability during audits

• Improper Storage Practices

  • Mixing raw and finished products in the same area

  • No clear labelling for allergens

  • Expired materials not separated from usable stock

• Inadequate Pest Control Evidence

  • Pest control done but no documented proof

  • Missing pest control layout maps

  • No corrective action records for pest sightings

• Neglecting Equipment Calibration

  • Scales, thermometers, and pH meters not calibrated regularly

  • No calibration certificates kept for audits

• Lack of Cleaning Validation

  • Cleaning schedules exist but are not validated for effectiveness

  • No swab test or visual inspection records

• Poor Personnel Hygiene Enforcement

  • Staff wearing jewellery or nail polish in production areas

  • No health check records for employees

  • Inconsistent hairnet and glove usage

• No Mock Recall or Product Recall Procedure

  • Never tested ability to recall a product

  • Missing contact list for emergency recalls

✅ How to Avoid These Oversights

• Review and Update SOPs Quarterly

• Train Staff on GMP Beyond Basic Hygiene

• Conduct Internal Audits to Catch Issues Early

• Maintain a Master List of All Records & Certificates

• Test Your Traceability and Recall Process Once a Year

• Verify Cleaning Effectiveness with Swab Tests

📌 Quick Checklist for GMP Compliance in Small Food Factories

• Up-to-date and signed SOPs

• Complete pest control documentation

• Calibrated equipment with certificates

• Separate storage for raw, processed, and finished goods

• Regular staff hygiene checks and training

• Mock recall completed within 4 hours or less

💡 Pro Tip: In small factories, GMP issues are rarely about lack of effort — they’re usually about lack of documentation and verification. If it’s not written down, auditors will treat it as if it never happened.