Organic ingredient supplier maintains output to support essential food manufacturing during coronavirus outbreak

As restaurant and food service establishments across the United States continue to close or limit service due to the coronavirus, the demand for grocery items and confectionery continues to rise.

Food manufacturers are trying their best to meet these rising demands while at the same time implementing the most stringent procedures and protections to keep their workforce safe and healthy.

In states like Illinois, New York and California, ‘Shelter in Place’ orders are in effect and most civilians are forced to stay home, but many in the food sector continue to work to carry out essential tasks such as keeping supermarket shelves stocked and production sites operational.

One company maintaining output is color, flavor and ingredients specialist Flavorchem, which operates manufacturing facilities across the world.

Robust operational and sanitation response

It said it has been able to function at full capacity by instituting a robust operational and sanitation response plan that is reviewed and updated daily based on recommendations of CDC, federal, state and local health experts, and in accordance with industry best practices.

“All employees that can work from home have been instructed to do so. Currently, the company is responding to increases in order volume and is thankful that they have not experienced any delays supplying essential ingredients to food and beverage brands​,” said Ken Malinowski, the company’s president.

In a company-wide email, Malinowski thanked employees for their dedication and sacrifice during this critical time. “We are a vital part of the food supply chain. For as long as we are able, we will meet the needs of our customers who are providing food and beverages to retailers across the country and around the world. Thank you for contributing to keeping supply chains open and supporting food and chemical manufacturing as a critical infrastructure​.”

He said some food manufacturers have been forced to close their doors or limit production due to inaccessible raw materials coming from different regions of the world.

“Flavorchem is ready to help supply flavor or color ingredients to support the manufacturing and production of existing essential items​,” he said.