1. Define the product before asking for a price
Record the intended application, nutrient formulation, ratio, kernel characteristics, bag size, quantity and delivery point. A precise brief makes quotations comparable.
2. Review the documents
- Applicable food business and product licences
- Product specification with revision and date
- Relevant batch test report and test methods
- Laboratory scope and accreditation where required
- Storage, shelf-life and traceability information
3. Evaluate a representative sample
Inspect the kernels and conduct a documented blending and cooking trial using your actual rice. Agree acceptance criteria before commercial supply.
4. Define the commercial responsibilities
Confirm taxes, freight, testing costs, lead time, payment terms, rejection handling and the process for resolving a quality complaint.
5. Keep lot-level records
Retain the link between purchase order, incoming lot, associated test report and blending records. An approved supplier does not remove the need to identify each consignment.
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Further readingFSSAI: fortified food