Poppies Bakeries Chooses Quality with FenS

Poppies Bakeries, established in 1976, started by selling traditional Flemish pastries and biscuits to local retailers. They have since grown into an international company with a global customer base. Prioritising safe food production, they go beyond ensuring optimal hygiene through thorough cleaning and disinfection.

Through organic growth and acquisitions, Poppies Bakeries has enhanced their bakery expertise and expanded their product range over the decades. Gradually, they have become a trusted partner globally – by understanding artisanal baking principles, scaling them up, sourcing the right ingredients, developing recipes to build flavours, and meticulously monitoring quality. With fourteen bakeries and over 1,300 employees in Europe and the USA, they are a reliable supplier for private labels worldwide. Additionally, they have launched their own brand of sweet bakery products. Sustainability is a key focus for this international company, evident in their efforts towards heat recovery, gas saving through baking line adjustments, and reducing waste and energy.

Lubricants

"Smooth production also means smooth-running machines," says Peter de Zeeuw, Technical Service Coordinator at Poppies. In 2017, Poppies switched to a new lubricant supplier due to the previous ones not all being NSF H1 approved. "We value reliable, honest suppliers," Peter continues. "That's how we came across FenS, offering a complete package of food-safe lubricants." FenS provided Poppies with a product proposal consisting exclusively of NSF H1-approved products and relevant documentation, meeting the strict requirements of the food industry. "To test our food-safe products in the production process, we offer customers free samples. Poppies of course tested our products first, with positive results," says Erik van Eldijk, Product Advisor at FenS.

The solution

After a successful implementation, all necessary lubricants have been replaced by food-safe lubricants from the Bechem range over time. "With new products, we always ensure our customers have the necessary documentation, like product and safety information, and allergen declarations," says Erik. Peter appreciates the so-called 'lubrication map', containing all relevant and current documentation of the lubricants used, ensuring their product and safety information is always up to date.

'With the lubrication map, our product and safety information is always up to date'

Annual oil analysis

FenS offers Poppies an annual free oil analysis to ensure the quality of the oils. "This analysis monitors the fluid properties, the impact of possible contaminants, and any wear and tear on machines and parts. Our goal for our customers: achieving a more efficient production process," Erik explains.

Peter shares, "Previously, we replaced the oil annually as a precaution. However, the results from the first oil analyses after switching showed that FenS's oil didn't need replacement even after two years. The lubricants are of such high quality that we can use them for at least three years. We've had a good experience with FenS's technical support. I usually call Erik, my main contact. If he's not available, I contact the office, where someone knowledgeable always assists me."

Collaboration

Poppies aims for the highest possible scores in their annual food safety audits. "We support Poppies by ensuring all lubricants are NSF H1 approved and all associated documentation is up to date. Combined with open and clear communication, we strive to build long-term relationships with our customers," says Erik. Peter adds with a smile, "And they succeed! FenS is always there for us. They are reliable and keep their promises. We are very happy with this supplier."

Visit the websites for more information:

www.poppiesbakeries.com/nl
www.fens.nl