Trudi Bennett, Packing operative, Lallemand Bacteria Production Plant, Malvern, U.K: “Quality check throughout the line up to the very end is key: we must make sure the packaging, label and batch numbers are correct”

The people behind the products: meet Trudi Bennett, Packing operative / Production Packer, Lallemand Bacteria Production Plant, Malvern, U.K.

Trudi works on all bacteria products: silage inoculants, Bactocell, Aviguard, and Powermix blends.

 

Can you introduce yourself?

I am originally from Shropshire and moved to Worcestershire at a very young age. I currently live in Defford, Worcestershire. I started to work for Lallemand in February 2020. Before that, I worked in different jobs in hospitality, retail, assembly, small level production, and warehouse — like order picking fresh produce and carrying out quality control checks to ensure all standards are reached. In my free time, I am a big fan of autograss racing with my husband, it’s a hobby we have had for over 25 years now, I also love spending time with my grandchildren.

 

What are your main tasks in the production plant?

I am one of the last links in the production chain before we deliver the finished goods to the customers. I am in charge of identifying the blend sheets relevant to the bulk packing line; sourcing the required ingredients and weighing out all the listed requirements on the blend sheets; setting up the packing machine to the preset menu relevant to the required product (i.e. farm pack, Bactocell or Melofeed); packing into the preformed sachet indicated by the worksheet, and filling as to the required weight (i.e. 500g up to 25kgs).

 

What do you like about your job with Lallemand?

The people! I am still fairly new, so I enjoy getting the know the team better. My boss, Andy, and my packing supervisor, Gareth, are easy-going and fun to work with. They are good at picking you up if you’re having a bad day. Also, I enjoy working hours and being able to spend more time with my family, especially my grandchildren.

 

In your opinion, what is most important to pack quality bacteria products?

Quality check throughout the line up to the very end is key: we must make sure the packaging, label, and batch numbers are correct. As the batch is being produced, it is key to check the general quality of the finished packaging – visually checking the seal of the sachet, the weight of the product (by use of the check weigher conveyor line), and finally the alignment of the label. Working as a team is important as we all have to have several pairs of eyes to check the product and packing.