Quality Control / Quality Assurance

Question 1

Quality control definition

Answer 1

Quality control is focused on fulfilling quality requirements. This is the process of tests and checks to ensure that quality is being maintained.

Question 2

Quality assurance definition

Answer 2

Quality assurance is focused on providing confidence that quality requirements will be fulfilled. This is a proactive process aimed at prevention. This includes HACCP plans and the documentation of standard operating procedures.

Question 3

Why is quality assurance important? (4)

Answer 3

• consumer safety
• inconsistent quality can affect brand perception and loyalty
• returns and recalls are costly and can result in further loss of brand perception
• avoidance of lawsuits

Question 4

Product recall examples (3)

Answer 4

Japan: Suntory recalls part Redwood Creek wines (Gallo) due to glass chips.

Australia + New Zealand: current recall of 2017 Warburn Estate wines due to glass chips.

UK: Distell (ZA) recalls bottles in Morrisons, Tesco, and Waitrose due to glass, 2015.

Question 5

Example of product label legality

Answer 5

Wine from Argentina cannot be sold in the UK with an official abv above 15%. (No bilateral agreement with EC)

Question 6

Product traceability definition

Answer 6

Traceability means the ability to trace and follow a product (wine) through all stages of production, processing, and distribution.

Question 7

Lot number example

Answer 7

The lot number whether on a label, capsule, engraved, or printed on a bottle is compulsory under EC regulation.