Implementing FMEA (Failure Mode and Effect Analysis) in a canned corn manufacturing industry: a case study

Abstract

Assuring quality and food safety is challenging for many companies, as they affect the sustainability of the business. it was identified lack of studies focused on applying risk assessment tools in the food industry by reviewing the literature. This study aims to describe the implementation of Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) to identify potential risks and how to prevent them, to assure quality requirements in a corn food plant. This paper follows a case study approach, based on a qualitative methodology. During the execution of FMEA, the hazards and mitigation controls were identified. The results provide evidences of how FMEA can be effective by showing the vulnerabilities of production flow, controls to implement and how to prioritize actions. FMEA contributed to managing risks found for the company where the case study was conducted. This case study can be followed by other companies and different processing technologies, extrapolating the food industry.

Key words: FMEA; quality; hazard; corn; food industry.