Which of the following best describes how to approach supplier audits for safety?

• A. Only check COAs.
• B. Only rely on marketing materials.
• C. Audit only once every 5 years.
• D. Conduct supplier audits or visits, and review recalls and performance history.

Answer: (D)

Approaching supplier safety requires a proactive, evidence-based review that combines on-site verification with a look at how the supplier has performed over time. Conducting supplier audits or visits lets you see firsthand whether safety controls are actually in place and followed—from process controls and sanitation to traceability and training. At the same time, reviewing recalls and performance history provides a track record: how the supplier handles issues, how quickly they respond, and whether corrective actions are effective. Relying solely on COAs gives only a snapshot of a single batch’s test results and can miss systemic problems or changes in processes. Marketing materials often present a favorable picture and don’t reflect actual safety performance. Auditing only every five years leaves too much time for drift or new risks to arise. A robust safety approach combines audits or visits with a review of recalls and performance history to form a dynamic, ongoing assessment of risk and compliance.