PASS launches food complaints service

Public Analyst Scientific Services (PASS) has launched a service to investigate reports of food faults received from consumers and manufacturers.

The firm, part of the Eurofins Scientific group, said it is for manufacturers, retailers and enforcement authorities.

PASS is offering a complaints investigation service, which includes foreign body identification, taint and off-flavour analysis, authenticity and quality checks as well as opinion on composition and safety.

A web based interface will be live shortly to allow customers access to the service.

This will also provide a link to the reporting and trending functionality of Eurofins’ euro-portal, allowing customers to highlight potential problem products, leading to preventative action and a potential reduction in complaints and associated costs, said the firm.

PASS supplies public and agricultural analyst services to local authorities in the UK. Its public analysts provide sampling advice, analytical services and opinion to local authority customers and offer regional coverage across the UK.

Sue Riley, of Eurofins, said headlines about insects, glass, plastics or other foreign bodies found by consumers are common.

“This kind of negative exposure, especially when fuelled by social media, can have a devastating effect on a brand.

“At Eurofins we recognise that food retailers and manufacturers need to be able to respond to consumer complaints with accurate information as quickly as possible.”