Perishable products supply chain infrastructures are possibly the most time and condition-sensitive of all the supply chain infrastructures. Because of their supply chain needs, storage solutions must be more responsive to them.

The MHRA regulates on-demand storage options for perishables, particularly consumables and cosmetics that are applied to the skin (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency).

What Does the MHRA Do?

In the UK, the MHRA is in charge of regulating the following items and their storage:

  • Food products
  • Dietary and medical supplements
  • Medicines and drugs
  • Vaccines
  • Medical equipment
  • Radiation-emitting electronics
  • Aesthetics (skin and hair products)
  • Animal-related products (food, medicine, and more)
  • Tobacco goods, among other things.

Along with ensuring that the above-mentioned goods are created according to a certain code, the MHRA also ensures that they are kept and transported in a safe way. This involves locating certified MHRA approved warehousing UK, as well as transportation.

Free Set of cosmetic supplies near decorative leaves in vase on marble shelf Stock Photo

What Exactly Is an MHRA-Approved Warehouse?

MHRA certified warehouses are storage systems that have been approved by the MHRA as suitable for food storage. The MHRA conducts frequent audits to verify that all of its standards and criteria are followed to the letter.

If you’re supplying any of the above-mentioned things, it’s critical to locate the correct on-demand warehouse; otherwise, you risk compromising your products in front of the MHRA, which is a PR catastrophe that most product lines or firms can’t recover from quickly!

When looking for a storage solution for your inventory, keep the following three factors in mind.

1. Do you have any special storage requirements?

Some foods must be kept frozen, while others need to be kept somewhat heated to extend their shelf life. Make sure the on-demand warehouse provides the sort of storage you require before signing any contracts. It’s typically a good idea to choose a warehouse solution with a variety of storage options.

As a result, you aren’t restricted to a specific product category due to your storage solution. If your goods doesn’t require any special storage, inspect the warehouse to ensure it is dry, clean, and pest-free. Perishables attract pests, and some warehouses do not provide pest damage insurance.

2. The Situation in the Facility

As previously said, ensure that the facility is clean and well-maintained. When touring a facility, keep an eye out for the following things:

  • The condition of the moving equipment
  • Shelves’ condition (cleanliness)
  • Rodents, insects, fungi, mold, and other pests are present.
  • Certificates of MHRA compliance
  • The roof’s condition, especially if the warehouse is located in an area where the weather is particularly poor.
  • If there are any particular requirements, check to ensure if the SOPs are followed to the letter. Even a 1 degree change in temperature may tell the difference between long-lasting food and rotten food.
  • Exterior that is clean and well-maintained
  • The track record of the warehousing firm

3. Registration with the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency

The MHRA examines accredited warehouses on a regular basis to ensure that they are meeting their standards. The majority of food-grade warehouses must adhere to stringent cleanliness and storage regulations. The goal is to inform suppliers and customers about whether or not the item they’re buying was properly stored.

Another advantage of using an MHRA-certified on-demand warehouse is that your goods will stay MHRA-certified, attracting new customers. This is especially important when providing products for new-borns, as new parents are very concerned about what they give their infant.

It’s important to remember that inspecting a warehouse’s accreditation is your right. If you haven’t received a response to your request for a copy of the certificate, you may want to consider alternative options.

There are numerous additional factors to consider, but these three are the most significant.