Product & process evaluation
Review the product, process flow, packaging, intended storage, and technical question. Identify the information needed to evaluate proposed controls.
Process authority & validation services
Make your next process decision with scientific support.
Work with Ernest Black, microbiologist and process authority, to evaluate your product and process, define the evidence needed, and plan the next technical steps.
A project built around your question
From process evaluation to validation support.
Validation strategy
Assess supporting evidence and discuss study design, critical limits, process-schedule support, and any additional work needed for your application.
Deviation & change review
Evaluate the facts behind a deviation or proposed change and identify the technical information needed for a defensible decision.
YOUR PRODUCTYOUR PROCESSEvidence for the decision ahead
Relevant technical experience
Food and beverage process support.
Ernest’s experience includes acidified and low-acid foods, juices and beverages, thermal processing, high-pressure processing, ultraviolet treatment, pH-based controls, and multi-hurdle systems.
The scope for your product is confirmed after reviewing the specific technical question and requirements.
Review Ernest’s experience →How a project begins
Start with a brief product and process summary.
- Describe the need. Tell us what you make, how it is processed and stored, and the decision or deadline you face.
- Define the work. Discuss available records, evidence gaps, proposed deliverables, and any study or laboratory needs.
- Agree on a proposal. Confirm scope, timing, fees, and responsibilities before work begins.
Begin with a nonconfidential overview. We will arrange the appropriate exchange of detailed formulations and records after scoping.
Before you get started
Process authority questions.
When should I discuss my process with a process authority?
Start when you are developing a product, changing a formulation, package or process, assessing the evidence for a food safety control, or evaluating a deviation. The technical question and applicable requirements determine the scope of work.
What should I send with my first inquiry?
Provide the product category, a brief process description, packaging and intended storage conditions, your location, the decision you need to make, and your timeline. Start with a nonconfidential summary; detailed records and any samples can be arranged after scoping.
Can a HACCP class replace a process evaluation?
Training builds knowledge and practical skills. A process evaluation addresses a particular product, process, and body of supporting evidence. The two services can complement each other and are scoped separately.
Does every project need laboratory testing?
The evidence needed depends on the product, hazards, process, and question. Initial scoping identifies whether existing evidence can support the decision or whether additional study or laboratory work is needed. Laboratory services and costs are agreed separately.
How are fees and deliverables determined?
Ernest reviews the initial inquiry and discusses the work required. A proposal defines the scope, deliverables, timing, and fees before the project begins. A first inquiry does not commit you to a project.
Need training or HACCP plan support too?
Combine a process project with food safety consulting or private team training. Each service has its own agreed scope and deliverables.