Building Trust through Quality

Ted Beyer, Director of Quality and Food Safety at First Day

Ted Beyer is the Director of Quality and Food Safety at First Day, where he leads initiatives to ensure product safety, compliance and consumer satisfaction in the dietary supplement industry. With a strong background in quality assurance, Ted has overseen the implementation of key certifications such as NSF 455-2, BRC and SQF, helping bridge the gap between food and dietary supplements. He is passionate about building robust supplier verification processes and enhancing quality standards to align with evolving regulatory requirements.

Ted's career has been marked by a proactive approach to managing quality, fostering cross-functional collaboration and staying ahead of industry trends through continuous learning. He believes in the power of mentorship and the importance of consumer-driven improvements, using customer feedback to guide product quality enhancements. Ted's dedication to food safety and his strategic leadership continue to support First Day's mission of providing high-quality dietary supplements that consumers can trust.

Ted’s Professional Journey and Key Experiences

I’ve had the privilege of working with some incredible mentors who shaped my approach to food safety and quality, especially during my time at Skjodt-Barrett Contract Manufacturing. There, I learned the importance of setting high standards and continuous improvement, values I bring to every role. Over nearly 17 years, I’ve worked across various regulatory frameworks, gaining experience that has been invaluable in meeting rigorous food safety and quality standards. Today, as the Director of Quality and Food Safety at First Day, I apply those lessons to uphold our commitment to transparency and consumer trust.

Challenges in Maintaining the Business Continuum and Attracting New Consumers

One of the biggest challenges is staying proactive in a world where regulations and consumer knowledge are always evolving. Consumers now demand transparency and with social media, they’re incredibly well-informed. This requires a proactive, adaptable approach. Quality assurance plays a crucial role here—it’s about assuring our customers that their health and safety are our priorities, which builds trust and fosters loyalty.

Incorporating Consumer Feedback into Product Development and strategies

Consumer feedback is essential. At First Day, we see it as a direct line to understanding what our customers truly want and need. Their feedback informs us on everything from taste and texture to packaging improvements, which helps guide product development. Listening to our consumers ensures that we’re making products that they value and trust.

Staying Ahead of Regulatory Changes and Industry Trends

For me, continuous learning is key. I’m always looking for new classes, certifications and training programs to keep my knowledge current. 

I encourage my team to adopt the same mindset; it keeps us adaptable and ready for whatever changes come our way. By promoting a culture of ongoing education, we stay ahead of industry trends and regulatory changes, which is crucial in maintaining our high standards.

Collaborating with Cross-Functional Teams for Long-Term Success

Cross-functional collaboration is essential to what we do. Quality control isn’t isolated—it needs alignment with operations, supply chain, product development and marketing. Each team plays a critical role in upholding quality standards. By working closely across these areas, we embed quality into every step, from raw materials to finished products, ensuring consistency and excellence that support both product quality and business goals.

"Don’t be afraid to explore different roles or environments, whether in large corporations, small family-run businesses or startups. Each setting offers unique lessons."

Advice to Aspiring Professionals in the Food Industry

Never stop learning and stay curious. The food industry is constantly changing, with new regulations, consumer expectations and technological advancements. Don’t be afraid to explore different roles or environments, whether in large corporations, small family-run businesses or startups. Each setting offers unique lessons—from the structure of large companies to the agility of startups. Embrace diverse experiences; they’ll give you a well-rounded perspective. And above all, always prioritize food safety and quality—this is what builds consumer trust and, ultimately, drives success.