Food and Beverage Manufacturers Key Terms

Learn the terminology associated with food and beverage manufacturers

Food and beverage manufacturers help to keep food on our tables. If you are just getting started in this profitable industry, you may be confused by all of the new terminology. However, learning these new words is a key to your success, such as modified atmosphere packaging, air curtain, and SKU. Once you know the basics, you'll feel more confident working in the industry.

Store brand vs. national brand

National brands are also sometimes called advertised brands or simply brand-name goods. These are the brands that are produced nationally and you may see advertisements on television. Store brands are manufactured by the store and are typically cheaper. They are similar to generic brands.

Air curtain

An air curtain is used in warehouses as a buffer zone between storage areas of two different temperatures. It helps to ensure that hot air doesn't enter a refrigerated space. This is essential for manufacturers that make and store different types of products.

Modified atmosphere packaging

Modified atmosphere packaging helps to extend the life of perishable goods. If your company produces items that can "go bad" after just a few days, you'll want to consider this type of packaging.

Stockkeeping unit (SKU)

Stockkeeping units, or SKUs are used by manufacturers, warehouses, and retailers to keep track of their products. It's an alphanumeric number that is registered in their computer database.

Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP)

Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point, or HACCP, is an effort to control food safety by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Efforts must be made to control potential hazards in food, such as microbes, toxins or glass. HACCP offers guidelines.
Food and Drug Administration.

Private label foods

Private label food manufacturers produce food products, but allow companies to put their name on the label. Some private label companies will also produce a product based on the customer's recipe.

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