This autumn VielfaltMenü became DIN EN ISO 9001 certified. It’s the most important quality management certification standard. For caterers to become certified, they must show they are customer-oriented, prepare food according to high-quality processes and make continuous quality improvements. We asked Cornelia Hensel, Head of Quality Management at VielfaltMenü, to explain what the certification means.
Ms Hensel, what exactly is a DIN ISO certification? What does it mean?
Strictly speaking, we received the DIN EN ISO 9001-2015 certification. It’s world’s best-known standard for systematic quality management. Companies from many sectors can have their quality management checked and certified by an independent body. The certification proves our facilities uphold uniform and verifiable standard in terms of products and service quality. But there’s more to it. Being certified is not a one-off event but an ongoing process with regular checks. This ensures we’re constantly bettering our quality.
What can VielfaltMenü customers take away from the certification?
It shows our food and services meet high quality standards and our regional kitchens uphold the same high standards everywhere. It also demonstrates our commitment to employee and customer satisfaction.
What does quality management affect at VielfaltMenü?
Quality management covers all areas of our company. From human resources to all food production processes – purchasing, transport, cooking – to customer care to serving food at the counter. How we practice these processes is verified directly on site.
Do checks take place at multiple sites?
Yes, exactly. For our recent certification, checks occurred at seven educational institutions. Additional checks in our kitchens verified our food storage and waste management.
Who issues the certification?
We used Intertek, a certification company that’s officially recognized by the German Accreditation Body (DAkkS).
How long is the certification valid for?
Three years, however there are checks in the second and third year during which we must prove our continually improved quality. Recertification happens during the third year.
