Future Trends in Food Safety with Brando Tijerina of Taco John's

In this episode of Food Tech Talk, host Lydia Adams is joined by Brando Tijerina, Director of Quality Assurance, Commercialization, and Food Safety at Taco John's International. Together, they dive into the critical topics of food safety culture, the balance between innovation and quality, and the impact of technology on the food industry. Join us for an insightful conversation that highlights the importance of teamwork and communication in ensuring safe and delicious dining experiences!

In this episode of Food Tech Talk, host Lydia Adams welcomes Brando Tijerina, the Director of Quality Assurance, Commercialization, and Food Safety at Taco John's International. With over a decade of experience in the food industry, Brando shares his insights on maintaining high food safety standards while driving innovation in a competitive market.

Together, they:

Explore Brando's journey in food safety, showcasing his vast experience in quality assurance and commercialization across a range of restaurant brands.

Explain the importance of a unified approach to food safety, emphasizing that it must be a priority across all departments to ensure success and protect both guests and team members.

Discuss the robust training programs Taco John's has implemented to maintain food safety standards across its 400 locations, including the use of technology and industry partnerships for audits and training.

Examine the challenges of adoption within food safety practices, focusing on the need for clear communication and understanding of the "why" behind safety protocols to foster a culture of compliance and passion among team members.
Highlight the balance between innovation and safety, as Brando shares how Taco John's successfully introduces new menu items while adhering to strict food safety protocols.

Consider the role of technology in enhancing food safety and quality assurance, including the use of data-driven decisions and tools like Footlogic for traceability and compliance.

Explore future trends in food safety, particularly the impact of upcoming regulations like FSMA 204, and the potential for AI to revolutionize food safety practices in the industry.

Brando's insights provide a comprehensive look at how Taco John's navigates the complexities of food safety while remaining committed to quality and innovation. Tune in to discover how a strong food safety culture and effective partnerships can drive success in the food industry.