Approximately 84% of food manufacturers in the United States have a food defense plan in place, as reported by the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). The organization has a goal of increasing that number to 90% in 2015, and it plans to target the smallest food producers in order to achieve that milestone (98% of large producers already have a plan). These plans help manufacturers prevent intentional contamination of food products and, according to FSIS, “It is particularly helpful during emergencies. During a crisis, when stress is high and response time is at a premium, a documented set of procedures improves a plant's ability to respond quickly.”

This FSIS brochure offers guidelines for creating a new food defense plan, which provides a great starting point. In addition, WPS offers Process Design Engineering services, from risk assessment to system optimization, which can help you prevent willful and accidental contamination.