1. Purpose

This policy outlines the standards, procedures, and commitments of [Company Name] regarding the sourcing, processing, storage, distribution, and export of frozen meat products including beef, chicken, pork, lamb, and other related food products, in compliance with Portuguese and European Union food safety and quality regulations.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all departments and operations within the company, including procurement, production, cold storage, quality assurance, logistics, and export functions.

3. Product Categories

• Beef (Carne de vaca)

• Chicken (Frango)

• Pork (Carne de porco)

• Lamb/Mutton (Carne de borrego)

• Processed meat products (sausages, patties, cold cuts, etc.)

4. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

• Adherence to Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 and Regulation (EC) No 178/2002 for hygiene of food of animal origin.

• Compliance with Direção-Geral de Alimentação e Veterinária (DGAV) and HACCP guidelines for food safety.

• Respecting animal welfare and traceability standards as per EU legislation.

5. Quality Assurance and Safety

• Implement a Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) system across all operations.

• Regular microbiological and chemical testing of meat products.

• All products must be stored and transported at temperatures below -18°C.

6. Procurement and Sourcing

• Source livestock and raw materials from certified and audited farms or suppliers.

• Maintain detailed traceability records for every batch.

• Preference for suppliers that follow sustainable and ethical farming practices.

7. Packaging and Labeling

• Products must be vacuum-sealed or blast frozen with EU-compliant labeling.

• Label must indicate: Product Type, Country of Origin, Batch Number, Production & Expiry Date, Storage Instructions, and Nutritional Information.

8. Environmental Responsibility

• Minimize carbon footprint by using energy-efficient freezing and storage technologies.

• Implement waste management systems for meat by-products.

• Promote recyclable and eco-friendly packaging.

9. Export Policy

• Strict compliance with destination country import requirements.

• Maintain documentation for Veterinary Certificates, SIF Numbers, and EUR.1 or Certificate of Origin where applicable.

• Coordination with customs brokers for smooth export logistics.

10. Employee Training and Conduct

• All staff involved in production and handling must undergo regular food safety training.

• Use of protective gear and hygiene measures is mandatory in all food processing zones.

• Continuous performance reviews and audits to maintain high-quality standards.

11. Customer Service & Complaint Handling

• Maintain open communication with distributors, wholesalers, and end customers.

• All complaints must be recorded, analyzed, and addressed within 72 hours.

• Implement a recall procedure in case of product safety alerts.

12. Confidentiality and Ethics

• All internal practices, recipes, and supplier details are considered confidential.

• Employees are expected to uphold honesty, transparency, and integrity in all business dealings.

13. Continuous Improvement

• Annual review of the company policy to incorporate regulatory updates and technological advancements.

• Encourage innovation in cold chain logistics, product development, and sustainability.