Keep learning as an AGF inspector: the key to top quality

14 February 2025

The world around us is constantly changing, and that certainly applies to the potato, fruit and vegetable (AGF) sector. As an inspector, you need to stay up-to-date with the latest developments. Training and professional knowledge are indispensable in this regard. The basic training courses and certainly the recognized training for AGF inspector have been a permanent feature within Normec Foodcare for several years and form a solid basis for competent inspectors.

Peter van der Veeken

Peter van der Veeken, Senior consultant product quality , supervisor and trainer at Normec Maas Goodacre, emphasizes the importance of continuing to learn: "The quality of AGF products stands or falls with the knowledge of the inspector. A well-trained inspector recognizes problems at an early stage, can assess risks and ensures that only the best products enter the chain. That's why, as an inspector, you have to keep training and keep your knowledge up-to-date."

Changes in AGF training courses

To further align the training courses with the practice, Normec Foodcare is transferring the AGF training courses from Normec Training & Education to Normec Maas Goodacre as of January 1, 2025. Peter explains: "Within Normec Maas Goodacre, we are the real 'trade idiots' when it comes to fruits and vegetables. Together with my colleague Ludo Tuijnman we provide the training courses with a focus on practical teaching. We want to teach you not only the theory, but also how to apply that knowledge in practice."

What does this mean for you as a student?

Not much will change for participants in the AGF training courses. The training courses remain of high quality and the guidance remains in the hands of experienced specialists. "What does change," says Peter, "is that behind the scenes there are other people working on the organization of the training courses. But for you, the lines of communication remain short, we respond quickly and provide thorough training."

In addition, funding remains accessible. "We understand that cost is a factor. That's why we make sure the training courses remain affordable and affiliated members can take advantage of subsidies through Handelgroeit, the Social Fund of the Fruit and Vegetable Wholesalers."

Are you investing in professional knowledge?

As an inspector, you play an important role in the AGF sector. Quality, food safety and product knowledge go hand in hand. By continuing to learn from experts in the trade, such as Peter and Ludo, you ensure that you always have the right knowledge to guarantee high-quality AGF products.

Peter concludes: "We are very much looking forward to coaching you and training you to become a real specialist. We look forward to seeing you at one of our training courses!"

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