THE INFLUENCE OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON FOOD SAFETY AND QUALITY ASSURANCE STANDARDS IN SELECTED COMPANIES IN POLAND

Food safety is the basic characteristic of food and the most important one because food has the direct impact on our health. The COVID-19 pandemic influenced the whole food chain and consumer behavior by the restrictions, shutdowns and fear of being infected. This paper presents the results of the survey conducted among 71 enterprises operating in the food industry in Poland in 2022. The representatives were asked to assess the influence of the pandemic on food safety standards and their usefulness during the pandemic. They were also asked about the positive and negative aspects of the pandemic from the perspective of the food industry. It was shown that the pandemic strengthened the need and understanding of the hygienic standards, collaborations with suppliers and employee training. On the other hand, caused the more frequent food quality and safety inspections, shortages of the employees and supplies, and economic losses.