Implementing a Back-of-House Audit is an important first step to improving any food and beverage operation. Back-of-house audits, when properly employed, can help lower inventory levels, minimize food cost, reduce turnover, and increase food safety.

By Michael Beam, December 2, 2006

As we noted in our last article, putting standardized operating processes and state-of-the-art systems in place can ensure that restaurateurs and food service operators do not leave money on the table. One way in which operators can enhance profits is by putting a back-of-house (BOH) audit system in place for kitchen areas. Back-of-house audits, when properly employed, can help lower inventory levels, minimize food cost, reduce turnover, and increase food safety.

We discuss each of these areas below; outlining immediate benefits from instituting a BOH audit process:

Lowered Inventory Levels A well-maintained and organized back-of-house area encourages optimal product utilization while diminishing spoilage, waste and opportunities for theft.	Minimized Food Cost Kitchen storage areas that are well organized and properly maintained can help minimize product spoilage and waste; food is more likely to be prepared accurately when kitchen equipment is functioning properly.
Reduced Turnover An organized workplace and clearly defined expectations help keep employees focused and efficient, enhancing the work environment and allowing staff to focus on the guests.	Food Safety Proper temperature and cleanliness in storage areas as well as for other equipment thermometers are essential ingredients in keeping food safe.

Utilizing a streamlined audit form is a great first step in beginning to critically analyze back-of-house food service operations. Taking the time to put a back-of-house audit process in place is a step worth considering if your restaurant requires a high level of your involvement in day-to-day operations, has higher than expected food cost, or delivers inconsistent food.

As a starting point, we’ve included a link to a sample BOH Audit form; we have used variations of this form with many of our clients; simply download the PDF file, customize it to your food service establishment(s) and implement it today to improve your operation. Click here to visit the Restaurant Management & Advisory Services Library page to download a sample BOH Audit Form (posted December 3, 2006).

For more information, contact:

Michael Beam
Restaurant Management & Advisory Services
HVS International
Address: 372 Willis Avenue, Mineola, NY, 11501
Profile: Click here
Email: MBeam@hvs.com
Tel: +1 516 248-8828 ext. 280
Fax: +1 516 742-1905
Mobile: +1 585 737-6176