Quality assurance management in small meat manufacturers

Twenty-four manufacturers of ready to eat meat products were provided with an EFSIS hygiene audit. Subsequently, the technical or owner–manager of the company was interviewed. Analysis of the quality management systems operated and assessed was compared with the International Life Sciences Institute’s (ILSI) model for quality assurance management. Findings demonstrate that whilst there remain deficiencies in quality management systems in small businesses, particularly with respect to the lack of technical expertise, the efficacy of hands-on management should also be recognised. The research supports the view that ISO and Total Quality Management (TQM) philosophies are instructive frameworks for the implementation of quality assurance management within the small food business sector.