Whaley Pecan Company, Inc.
Rooted in Tradition, Committed to Quality Since 1937
Whaley Pecan Company, Inc., located in Troy, Alabama, is a fourth-generation, family-owned pecan processing facility established in 1937. The site undertakes the shelling, processing, and packaging of pecan products for distribution across retail and wholesale markets within the United States.
The scope of operations includes the production of pecan halves and pieces, roasted and salted products, dry-roasted variants, flavoured lines, and confectionery items. Activities also include bulk supply, packaged retail products, and direct-to-consumer sales via an online platform and retail outlet. Supporting processes include storage, handling, and distribution.
Food Safety Management System and Certification
The facility is certified to the Safe Quality Food (SQF) Programme through PJRFSI. Certification was implemented to formalise and verify the site’s food safety management system in line with internationally recognised requirements.
The system incorporates:
- A fully implemented HACCP plan aligned with Codex Alimentarius principles
- Documented prerequisite programmes (PRPs), including sanitation, pest control, allergen management, and supplier approval
- Defined process controls and critical control point (CCP) monitoring
- Traceability and product recall procedures
- Internal audit and management review processes
SQF certification supports compliance with customer, regulatory, and market requirements, while providing a structured framework for risk management and continual improvement.
Operational Impact of Certification
Implementation and certification of the SQF system has resulted in measurable improvements in process control and system maturity:
- Process standardisation: Formalised procedures and work instructions across production and handling operations
- Enhanced monitoring and verification: Strengthened CCP validation, verification activities, and record-keeping practices
- Improved risk management: Systematic identification and control of food safety hazards
- Increased supply chain confidence: Alignment with customer specifications and third-party certification requirements
- Workforce engagement: Improved awareness and accountability in relation to food safety practices
Audit and Certification Process
The site has undergone third-party certification audits conducted by PJRFSI. Audit outcomes have confirmed conformance with SQF requirements, with the audit process described as structured, evidence-based, and aligned with industry best practice.
Auditors demonstrated technical competence in food safety systems and provided objective evaluation of compliance against standard requirements. The audit process also supported identification of non-conformities and opportunities for continual improvement.
Key Differentiators
Whaley Pecan Company combines long-standing operational experience with a structured, standards-based approach to food safety management. Key characteristics include:
- Established multi-generational expertise in pecan processing
- Implementation of a certified SQF food safety management system
- Defined quality control and inspection processes throughout production
- Ongoing commitment to system maintenance and continual improvement
Forward Strategy
The organisation continues to focus on maintaining certification, strengthening system effectiveness, and supporting business growth through controlled and compliant operations.
Future priorities include:
- Continuous improvement of food safety and quality management systems
- Expansion of market access through recognised certification
- Ongoing investment in process efficiency and product development
SQF certification remains a central component in ensuring that operational growth is supported by robust food safety controls and compliance with applicable standards.
Alignment with UK Retailer and Market Expectations
The SQF-certified food safety management system supports alignment with internationally recognised retailer requirements, including those commonly applied within UK grocery supply chains. The system incorporates controls and verification mechanisms consistent with benchmarked food safety expectations adopted by major UK retailers, including Tesco and Sainsbury’s, particularly in relation to hazard analysis, traceability, supplier approval, and documented due diligence.
This structured approach supports the site’s capability to meet requirements within UK and European market frameworks by demonstrating the implementation of robust food safety principles, including end-to-end traceability, preventive controls, and corrective action systems. It also aligns with expectations associated with schemes recognised by the Global Food Safety Initiative.
Contact Information
Whaley Pecan Company
P.O. Drawer 609
Troy, AL 36081
Toll-Free: 1-800-824-6827
Local: 1-334-566-3504
