What Food and Beverage Processors Need to Know About Today's ERP

Food and beverage manufacturers face unique challenges when implementing enterprise technology that differ from those discrete manufacturers face. They require solutions that allow for track and trace of ingredients, optimization of shelf life and flexibility for changing ingredient formulas, among others. This

paper outlines key considerations food and beverage companies must keep in mind when entering into an enterprise technology selection process. The focus is on finding the best fit that promises traceability, electronic document management, recipe management, and effective food safety planning. The paper also

provides an overview of compliance challenges facing food and beverage processors, from SQF code and HACCP certifications, to federal and international standards.

The food and beverage processing sector faces an ever-changing set of requirements that impacts the selection and implementation of enterprise solutions. One of the most common issues food and beverage companies must contend with is the lack of an integrated toolset which streamlines recipe management, quality, lot trackand-trace, document control and other key functions. We see many processors relying on outdated, standalone systems, and siloed solutions to handle these key functions. Frequently organizations are depending on manual spreadsheets, resulting in error-prone and inefficient processes. Ultra Consultants has guided top processors to go beyond technology selection and broaden the focus to identify ways for improving business processes. Purpose-built solutions address industry-specific processes and business requirements. Noted here are the main functional areas that food and beverage processors need to address when seeking an ERP solution.