Neogen Analytics: Transforming Food Safety with Industry Veteran Leadership

Nov 26, 2024 at 9:48 PM
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Under the guidance of an experienced industry veteran in data technology, Neogen Analytics is at the forefront of helping food and beverage manufacturers maximize the benefits of food safety management platforms. David Hatch, Vice President of Digital Solutions Marketing at Neogen Corporation, has spent three decades in various data technology environments, with the last six and a half years dedicated to the food and beverage industry. This expertise laid the foundation for the development of Neogen Analytics.

Journey to Success

In January 2018, Hatch and his colleagues joined forces with microbiology doctoral candidates from MIT who had innovative ideas for rapid pathogen diagnostics. This led to the launch of Corvium, a software firm focused on automating food safety testing workflows and analytics. Their partnership became a crucial component of Neogen's operations after its acquisition of Corvium in February 2023.Through his early work with the team, Hatch quickly realized the impact of data and technology on food safety. Since becoming part of Neogen and having access to global resources, he has been excited about the platform's development and the achievements for its users.In this industry, where lives are at stake every day, the sense of purpose drives Hatch and the Neogen team to continuously innovate and refine their platform.

Data-Driven Impact

Neogen Analytics offers a cloud-based digital platform that streamlines food safety testing workflows and time-to-information. The software enables various food safety applications to operate within it. For example, the environmental monitoring application digitizes and automates programs, while the product testing program helps customers manage risk and quality objectives. The system connects Neogen's testing devices to the platform, ensuring unified data delivery to any internet-connected browser device.This modular approach allows customers to transition from outdated methods like spreadsheets and paper to an automated digital system, reducing the time it takes to access information and enabling quick action on issues.

Visualizing Data for Food Safety Professionals

One of the platform's standout features is its ability to visualize data. When users log in, they are greeted with a dynamic map of their facility using their engineering drawings or digital photos. This clear and intuitive representation of test points and their statuses has become a beloved component of the program. It conveys information in a way that is accessible to food safety professionals who may not be as tech-savvy as financial analysts.

Auditing and Confidence Building

Audits play a vital role in maintaining food safety standards. When a third-party auditor sees a company's command and control over its food safety data, it makes a strong impression. One customer even turned their laptop to show an auditor a map of the entire floor plan, demonstrating their organization and control over food safety processes. Presenting data in an organized manner not only facilitates audits but also builds confidence among food manufacturers.

Integration and Sustainability

The platform is built to be open and integrative, allowing customers to connect data from their existing testing devices, third-party laboratories, and other data sources. Neogen's integration engine can handle data in any format, meeting the diverse needs of its clients.With the growing emphasis on sustainability, the company is helping customers analyze data and discover efficiencies in their production processes. For example, a large meat producer reduced waste and energy consumption by identifying the root causes of scrapped production runs. This led to improved production yield and reduced environmental impact.As Neogen Analytics continues to evolve, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning is on the horizon. The platform is already designed to track trends and patterns in food safety data, enabling proactive detection of potential issues before they lead to production disruptions.Neogen Analytics has a robust platform that empowers customers to take control of their food safety processes. The company is committed to leveraging technology and data to drive positive outcomes in food safety and contribute to a healthier and safer world."This is what excites me. Neogen shares this vision and has allowed me to lead the messaging and launch of these initiatives globally," said Hatch.