The following checklist provides some insights to help make your decision on which flavor house is right for you.
Doing your homework is essential in choosing the “right” flavor provider. In many ways, the supplier you choose speaks volumes about your commitment to the quality of your products. The failure to select an organization that can consistently deliver reliable results and services can have a negative rippling effect throughout your supply chain and undermine your quality initiatives.
The following checklist provides some “food for thought” as you make this all-important decision.
1. Price
While it is second nature to focus on cost, price should not be given inflated importance over other critical variables. All providers face many of the same operational costs, provided they implement extensive quality systems to ensure a quality product. If a flavor provider is selling its products based on price alone, remember the refrain: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
2. Flavor Customization
Productive partnerships are built on trust. Determine if your prospects have a dedicated R&D team, including skilled flavorists, that will consult with you to address your specific needs. A reputable provider should not only be capable of flavor matching but also skilled in developing new, customized flavors tailored to your requirements. Additionally, inquire about their ability to mask any unwanted flavors, ensuring a harmonious and enjoyable taste profile for your products. Your chosen flavor provider should not just offer products but be a collaborative partner in achieving your unique flavor goals.
3. Certification & Quality Systems
Globally, certifications like FSSC 22000 and BRC, benchmarked by GFSI, stand as hallmarks of excellence. Achieving these certifications involves a substantial investment and certified facilities willingly share this information to showcase their commitment to quality. If a prospect lacks GFSI benchmarked certification, inquire about the reasons behind it. For those in the certification process, request documentation on their status, keeping in mind that GFSI benchmarked certification is time-intensive and cannot be rushed.
Additionally, it's crucial to assess whether your flavor house is organically certified or merely organic compliant. Opting for an organically certified flavor house ensures that their flavors undergo annual audits, guaranteeing authenticity.
Request records from prospects outlining the scope of their quality systems and inquire about the existence of a dedicated food safety and quality team. Quality is synonymous with documentation, and any delay in providing requested documents should be treated as a potential red flag during the evaluation process.
4. Lead Times
Consider the lead times offered by different flavor providers. Efficient and reliable lead times are crucial in ensuring a smooth production process. Delays in flavor deliveries can disrupt your production schedule, affecting overall productivity. Discuss lead times with prospective providers and evaluate their ability to consistently meet deadlines. A provider with a streamlined production and distribution process can contribute significantly to the overall efficiency of your operations.
5. Minimum order quantities (MOQs)
Minimum order quantities (MOQs) can vary among flavor providers, and it's important to find a balance between your production needs and the provider's MOQ requirements. Be cautious of providers with excessively high MOQs, as this may lead to excess inventory and storage costs. On the other hand, providers with too low MOQs may struggle to meet your demand during peak production periods. Assess your production volume and work closely with your flavor provider to negotiate MOQs that align with your business requirements.
6. Familiar with Application
Consider the flavor provider's expertise in your specific industry and application. Different food and beverage products have unique requirements, and a provider with experience in your niche can offer valuable insights and support. Ask for case studies or examples of successful projects they have worked on within your sector. An experienced flavor provider will not only understand the technical aspects of flavor development but also the nuances of application within your product range.
In conclusion, selecting the right flavor provider is a critical decision that impacts the quality and success of your products. By carefully considering factors such as price, flavor customization, certifications, lead times, minimum order quantities, and application expertise, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your business goals. Remember to leverage industry connections and conduct on-site visits to validate your research, ensuring a strong and reliable partnership with your chosen flavor provider.