Intertek's Assurance in Action Podcast Network

40 Episodes
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By: Intertek

Welcome to the Intertek Podcast Network, Assurance in Action, your hub for quality insights and information from our Intertek experts. Learn what our people are saying about important industry trends ranging from food safety standards to supplier management and everything in between! With new and recurring guests, we are poised to provide you the knowledge needed to enhance your business processes, operations, and safety.

Reasonable Assurance for Climate Related Disclosures
Today at 4:00 AM

Are you ready to take the first steps toward Reasonable Assurance (RA) in climate-related disclosures?

From understanding what it means for GHG emissions reporting to where companies should begin, this episode breaks it down in a clear, practical way.

Join host Catherine Beare in conversation with Rizwan Nasmuddin as they explore how organizations can confidently start their RA journey and why it’s becoming essential for credible climate disclosure.

Tune in to learn how to move from intent to action.

Speakers:
Catherine Beare
, Regional Director - Business Assurance (UK...


Building Allergen Awareness: Turning compliance into customer trust
09/11/2025

For the food and hospitality industry, allergen management is about more than meeting regulations. It is about safeguarding customers, strengthening reputation, and creating a culture that builds lasting trust.

In this episode, host Patrick McNamara of Intertek Food Services is joined by Liljia Polo-Richards, founder of Allergy Companions. Sparked by her own family’s experience with severe food allergies, Lilia shares insights on how businesses can move beyond disclaimers and embed allergen awareness into their daily practices.

Together, they discuss:

Why asking the “allergen question” is only step oneHow a culture of allergen awareness can ge...


Exploring Biogenic Carbon in Lifecycle Assessments
09/04/2025

In this episode, we’re diving into the world of biogenic carbon, what it is, why it matters, and how it’s treated in Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs).

Join us as we untangle the science, standards, and sustainability implications of measuring carbon from renewable biological sources.

Whether you're a sustainability pro or just carbon-curious, this one’s for you.

Presenters:

Catherine Beare, Regional Director - Business Assurance (UK & Iberia)

Vijay Thakur, Senior Manager, Sustainability & LCA Lead, Intertek Assuris

Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitte...


Beyond Packaging: EPR’s Data Demands for Personal Care
08/28/2025

Data is the new currency of compliance. In today’s episode, we’re diving into the data management strategies companies need to meet Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, and what this means for the personal care industry. From navigating requirements across the U.S. to staying ahead of international mandates, we’ll share how we’ve been helping clients in personal care and consumer goods build the systems and processes to stay compliant and competitive. Tune in to learn how smart data management can turn regulatory challenges into business opportunities.

Presenters:
Thomas Savarese, Compliance Manager...


ISCC and C14 Testing: Ensuring Compliance in Co-Processed Fuels
08/21/2025

Discover how ISCC certification and C¹⁴ testing work together to verify bio-based content in co-processed fuels. Our host Florencia Bahamonde and our expert Liam Mills explain what co-processing is, why radiocarbon testing is the gold standard, and how Intertek helps organizations meet EU sustainability requirements with confidence. 

Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn.


Let’s Talk VOCs: Ensuring Medical Device Safety with ISO 18562
08/14/2025

What’s in the air your device is giving off? When it comes to medical devices, even invisible emissions like volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can pose very real risks. In this episode, we break down ISO 18562, the standard guiding the evaluation of gas pathway emissions in medical devices, and how it plays a vital role in protecting patient health. Whether you're developing ventilators, anesthesia systems, or breathing circuits, tune in to learn how to ensure compliance, minimize emissions, and safeguard users from the inside out.

Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn.


Offshore Wind: 10 Roadblocks to Watch in the Consent Process
08/07/2025

In this episode of Assurance in Action, we dive into 10 critical challenges that can impact the consent phase of offshore wind farm development. From stakeholder pushback and political hurdles to landscape concerns, design flexibility, and financial risks, this episode explores the early-stage complexities that can influence project success. A must-listen for anyone involved in renewable energy planning and development.

Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn.


Recycled Materials in Food-Contact Packaging
07/31/2025

In this episode of Assurance in Action, our experts Ashli Span and Taylor Cavanaugh break down one of the hottest — and most misunderstood — sustainability trends in packaging: recycled materials in food-contact applications.

What sounds like a win for the planet can quickly turn into a compliance nightmare if you’re not careful. From navigating FDA requirements like No Objection Letters (NOLs) to the risks of unverified supply chains and challenge test limitations, we bring clarity to the complexities of safe, sustainable packaging.

Whether you're a brand, manufacturer, or packaging supplier, you’ll walk away with a cleare...


Unraveling Microplastic Pollution: Biodegradable Solutions for Synthetic Textiles
07/25/2025

In this episode of Assurance in Action, host Dr. Dhanashree Bhelose, Global Head for Biosciences at Intertek, continues our biodegradability series with a deep dive into synthetic textiles. She’s joined by Andrea Ferris, CEO and Co-Founder of Intrinsic Advanced Materials, to discuss CiCLO® — an innovative technology that makes polyester biodegradable without compromising performance. Together, they explore the science, market trends, and future of sustainable textiles, as well as the urgent need to address microplastic pollution.

Discover how CiCLO® is reshaping the textile industry and why responsible innovation is key to closing the loop.

Follow us on...


ISCC Series: Certification Process- Pre-audit steps and processes
07/15/2025

In this episode of Intertek’s ISCC Awareness Series, host Simona Romanoschi is joined by Florencia Bahamonde to break down the foundational steps in the ISCC certification journey.

Together, they explore the end-to-end pre-audit process — from initial planning and system setup to audit readiness. Whether you’re pursuing ISCC EU, ISCC PLUS, or ISCC CORSIA, this episode outlines the crucial preparation steps that ensure organizations meet global sustainability, traceability, and greenhouse gas compliance requirements.

Perfect for sustainability leads, compliance officers, and supply chain professionals looking to nav...


Defining True Sustainability Amid Growing Greenwashing Risks: Identifying Genuine Eco-Friendly Products with LCA Insights
07/10/2025

In our latest podcast, join Catherine Beare and Monisha Monachan, as they dive into how to spot genuine eco-friendly products. Discover how life cycle assessments (LCAs) and environmental product declarations (EPDs) bring real transparency to sustainability claims, and why this matters more than ever in today’s market.

Tune in for practical insights that help cut through the noise, and separate true sustainability from clever marketing.

Speakers:

Catherine Beare, Regional Director - Business Assurance (UK & Iberia)
Monisha Monachan, Assistant Manager, Sustainability, Intertek Assuris

Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Tw...


Beyond the Label - The Overlooked Risk of Cosmetic Packaging
07/07/2025

Join Intertek Assuris’ Taylor Cavanaugh and Ashli Span on Assurance in Action as they uncover the hidden risks of cosmetic packaging, risks that could impact both consumer health and brand reputation.

Tune in to explore why packaging matters just as much as what’s inside, and how you can stay ahead of evolving safety regulations.

Speakers:

Taylor Cavanaugh, Senior Manager, Regulatory Market Access, Intertek Assuris

Ashli Span, Project Manager, Regulatory Market Access, Intertek Assuris

Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn.


Managing Allergen Risk: Best practices to avoid allergen contamination in food manufacturing
06/26/2025

A staggering 40% of all food product recalls are linked to the mismanagement of allergens, a situation that continues to put consumers at risk and damage food and beverage brands. So, what can food manufacturers do to reduce this occurrence?

In this episode, our host Patrick McNamara of Intertek Global Food Services, along with Deborah Matthews and Heather Hayward from Intertek Business Assurance explore:

What should be considered in terms of allergen management and what does good look like?Where do manufacturers have the most control to put processes in place?What are the areas...


EU Recycled Plastics Regulation—Regulation (EU) 2022/1616
06/23/2025

Description:

The EU’s push for a circular economy is transforming packaging regulations, and the updates to achieve compliance can be complex.

Join Intertek Assuris experts Taylor Cavanaugh and Ashli Span as they provide an overview of Regulation (EU) 2022/1616, the legislation governing recycled plastics in food contact applications. From authorization pathways to safety evaluations, learn what businesses need to know to stay compliant and competitive in the EU market.

Don’t miss this essential discussion for recycling, packaging, regulatory, and sustainability professionals.

Speakers:

Taylor Cavanaugh, Senior Manager, Regulatory Mark...


Certification Transfer – Dispelling the Myths
06/19/2025

In this podcast we look at what can often seem like a complex topic - transferring your ISO Management Systems Certification from one Certification Body to another. We dispel the myths, highlight how straightforward the process really is, and explain why Intertek makes it easier than most. 

Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn.


Land Use GHG Accounting
06/16/2025

What role does land use play in greenhouse gas emissions—and how do we measure it accurately?

Join Catherine Beare and Timur Lukhadi as they break down the fundamentals of land use GHG accounting. From carbon stock changes to key methodologies, this episode offers a clear and concise overview for businesses navigating sustainability reporting.

Tune in to learn the essentials.

Speakers:

Catherine Beare- Regional Director, Business Assurance (UK & Iberia)Timur Iukhadi- Sustainability Consultant, Intertek Assuris

Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn.


An Introduction to Double Materiality Assessments
06/12/2025

Join Intertek’s Catherine Beare and Zineb Belymam as they unpack one of the most talked-about concepts in ESG today: double materiality.

With pressure mounting from the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and recent updates through the Omnibus Review, organizations are navigating a complex landscape of sustainability risks, impacts, and disclosures. From practical insights to real-world client experience, this episode explores what double materiality really means and how companies are tackling assessments in practice. Whether you’re new to ESG or refining your reporting strategy, this episode offers valuable clarity and guidance.

Listen now to...


ISCC Series: Introduction to the ISCC EU Scheme – What You need to know
06/09/2025

In today’s episode, our Intertek’s expert, Florencia Bahamonde, dives into the ISCC EU scheme that provides businesses with a structured approach to meet legal obligations and sustainability commitments. From feedstock producers and traders to biofuel refineries and energy suppliers, ISCC EU helps businesses operating within the European bioeconomy contribute to the EU’s renewable energy targets while meeting strict sustainability, traceability, and greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction requirements. Listen to our podcast and learn which the six core sustainability principles ISCC EU certification is based on. 

 

Speakers: 

Catherine Beare, Regional Director Business...


From Waste to Worth: Strategy, Sustainability & Success
06/05/2025

In this World Environment Day edition of our Sustainability Series, Elma Christian is joined by David Muil, Intertek’s VP of Sustainability, to explore how businesses can unlock value by embedding sustainability into their strategy. From cost savings and innovation to stakeholder engagement and regulatory alignment, this episode breaks down why sustainability is more than a moral imperative—it’s a smart business move. Discover real-world examples, a practical PDCA roadmap, and one key message: sustainability is a profit driver.

Speakers: 

David Muil - Global VP of Sustainability for IntertekElma Isakovic-Christian - Global Business Develop...


Pyrolysis Oil Series: Deeper dive into Pyrolysis Oils and their potential uses
06/05/2025

In this episode of Assurance in Action, we continue our Pyrolysis Oil series with a deeper dive into the expanding possibilities of Py-Oil.

Join our expert Liam Mills, Sustainable Hydrocarbon Specialist at Intertek Caleb Brett, as he explores how waste plastics, tires, and biomass are being transformed into valuable low-carbon fuels.

From chemical recycling to sustainable aviation fuel and marine decarbonization—discover how Py-Oil is helping reshape waste into renewable opportunity.

🎧 Listen in and uncover the science driving circular innovation in fuels.

Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitte...


Diving into the Circular Economy
06/02/2025

In this episode, we explore the dynamic world of the circular economy—a concept transforming how businesses think about sustainability, resources, and long-term value creation.

Join Catherine Beare, Regional Director for Business Assurance at Intertek (UK & Iberia), as she speaks with Emilce Romarion, Senior Sustainability Consultant at Intertek Assuris (Argentina), who brings years of hands-on experience in life cycle assessments, GHG accounting, and decarbonization strategies across diverse industries.

Together, they break down the fundamentals of the circular economy, discuss why it’s gaining global momentum, and share insights on how companies can begin shifting from line...


Allergen Risk: Tracing the Unknown from Farm to Factory
05/29/2025

What happens when allergen contamination starts at the farm—and no one saw it coming?

In this powerful episode of our Allergen Podcast Series, Jatin Patel from FGS Ingredients shares the real story behind a nationwide recall involving mustard contaminated with peanut traces. Hosted by Alan Cadman of Intertek Food Services UK, the discussion explores:

Inconsistent lab results (PCR vs ELISA)The operational impact of unexpected recallsSteps to protect consumers from unknown risks

💡We can manage known risks. But what about the ones we don’t know yet?

Speakers: 

Jatin...


EUDR Series: EUDR Compliance- Exploring Risk Assessment
#21
05/26/2025

How does risk assessment fit into EUDR compliance? In this episode of our EUDR series, Jayne Stewart is joined by experts Luke Gwenter and Karen Ngo to break down the role of risk evaluation in meeting the EU Deforestation Regulation. Tune in for practical insights and key takeaways to strengthen your compliance strategy.

Speakers:

Jayne Stewart- Scientific Consultant, Regulatory Affairs and Dietary Intakes, Food & Nutrition Group, Food & Nutrition Group, Intertek AssurisKaren Ngo- Manager, Toxicology & Dietary Intakes, Food & Nutrition Group, Intertek AssurisLuke Gwenter- Associate Dietary Intakes, Food...


Navigating California’s Proposition 65
#20
05/22/2025

Join Intertek Assuris experts Cyrielle Birhart and Toquyen Legay as they unpack California’s Proposition 65, the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986. From regulatory scope to practical strategies for compliance, this episode offers valuable insights for companies navigating chemical safety in consumer products.

Tune in to learn how to stay compliant and keep your products on the California market.

Speakers:

Cyrielle Birhart- Regulatory and Safety Manager - Cosmetics, Intertek AssurisToquyen Legay- Pharmacist Toxicologist, Intertek Assuris

Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn.


World Bee Day: Impact of Bees on Ecosystems and Agriculture
#19
05/20/2025

🐝 World Bee Day Special – Protecting Pollinators for a Sustainable Future

Bees are essential to pollination and food production, but their populations are facing serious decline. In this special episode, we dive into the critical role bees play in our ecosystem and how agriculture and biodiversity can coexist and flourish.

Sandra Meixner sits down with Heinrich Kersten, a mechanical engineer and dedicated beekeeper, to discuss how simple adjustments in spraying schedules can help safeguard bee colonies and boost crop yields—a win-win for both nature and farming.

Don’t miss out on this fasc...


Offshore Wind Series: Challenges, Opportunities, and the Future of Renewable Energy
#19
05/19/2025

In this episode of Intertek’s Sustainability Talks, host David Muil is joined by Richard Sargeant from Intertek Industry Services, to dive into the exciting and complex world of offshore wind energy. From the scale of turbines to the unique challenges developers face—like corrosion, lightning strikes, and environmental concerns—Richard breaks down what makes offshore wind so different from onshore. The discussion also explores the financial viability of offshore wind, the latest technological advancements, and the future outlook of the industry. 

Tune in to learn why offshore wind is considered a key player in the global transit...


Understanding CDP Reporting
#18
05/15/2025

Curious about how to navigate the evolving landscape of climate disclosure? In this episode, we dive into the essentials of reporting for CDP (formerly Carbon Disclosure Project)—a critical framework for companies demonstrating environmental accountability. 

Join Catherine Beare, Regional Director, at Business Assurance and Myvi Somasundaram, Sustainability expert at Intertek Assuris, as they break down what CDP expects, why it matters, and how your organization can approach disclosure with clarity and confidence.

Whether you're new to CDP or refining your next submission, this conversation is packed with practical insights.

Presenters:

Cat...


Best Practices for GHG Assurance
#17
05/08/2025

Join Catherine Beare, Regional Director of Business Assurance (UK & Iberia), and Nkiruka Ubah, Senior Consultant, Sustainability at Intertek Assuris, as they unpack the essentials of greenhouse gas (GHG) assurance. From regulatory expectations to real-world implementation, this episode dives into what companies need to know to build trust in their climate data and stay ahead of evolving standards. Whether you're just starting or strengthening your sustainability strategy, don’t miss these practical insights from two industry leaders.

Presenters:

Catherine Beare, Regional Director - Business Assurance (UK & Iberia)Nkiruka Ubah, Senior Consultant, Sustainability, Intertek Assuris

Fo...


ISCC Series: Introduction to the ISCC PLUS Scheme – What You Need to Know
#16
05/05/2025

In today’s episode, Intertek’s expert, Florencia Bahamonde, dives into the ISCC PLUS scheme, a voluntary sustainability certification that extends beyond regulatory requirements, helping businesses reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. In this episode, you will know which type of businesses and supply chain actors can be certified as well as how the set of comprehensive sustainability criteria looks like.  


Speakers: 

Catherine Beare, Regional Director Business Assurance, UK and Iberia at Intertek Florencia Bahamonde, ISCC Senior Global Program Manager at Intertek 

 

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Diving into the Climate Reporting Regulations in the United States
#15
05/01/2025

From California to the SEC, climate disclosure is becoming a business imperative. Join Catherine Beare and Beth Mielbrecht as they unpack the evolving U.S. climate reporting landscape, explore what companies need to know now, and share practical insights to stay ahead of regulatory expectations.

Whether you're navigating the new California climate bills or looking for a competitive edge, this episode is your guide to understanding what "doing business" really means—and how to stay ahead of regulatory and market demand.

Tune in now and get the clarity your sustainability team needs.

Sp...


Managing Allergen Risks: Innovation and Regulation in a Global Food System
#14
04/28/2025

In this first podcast Patrick McNamara, our Global Innovations and Quality Manager,
Food Services, looks at the reasons why allergens remain one of the Food industry’s 
major issues as it faces unprecedented pressure to feed up to 10 billion people. 

Patrick introduces how replacement ingredients that meet consumer’s demands for healthier products are introducing new allergen risks, as well as the ever-changing 
global and local regulatory environment.

Tune in now! 

Speakers: 

Patrick McNamara- Global Innovations and Quality Manager, Intertek Food ServicesAlan Cadman- Business Development Manager, Intertek Food Serv...


Forests, Footprints & the Future – An Earth Day Special
#13
04/23/2025

In this Earth Day special, host David Muil sits down with forestry expert Ciara McCarthy to explore the vital role forests play in our global ecosystem. From absorbing billions of tons of carbon dioxide to supporting biodiversity and Indigenous communities, forests are far more than just trees. Ciara unpacks the threat of deforestation, the promise of sustainable forestry, and what global regulations like the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) mean for the future of forest products. Plus, learn how everyday consumers can make a difference—just by knowing what labels to look for.

Whether you're a sustainability professional or...


Pyrolysis Oil Series: Feedstocks, Fuels, and Sustainability Gains
#12
04/22/2025

In this episode of Assurance in Action, we explore the transformative potential of pyrolysis oil—a key innovation driving the circular economy. Liam Mills, an expert from Intertek Caleb Brett, breaks down the science behind pyrolysis, the variety of feedstocks it can process, and its current and future applications—from power generation to advanced chemical recycling. Tune in to understand how this technology supports sustainable waste management and reduces reliance on fossil fuels. 

For more information:

Visit our website: Pyrolysis Oil TestingEmail us: cb.marketing@intertek.com

Follow us on- I...


EUDR Series: A close look at the requirements for filing a Due Diligence Statement under EUDR
#11
04/17/2025

In this episode, join scientific consultants Lois Haighton, Jayne Stewart, and Luke Gwenter from Intertek’s Food & Nutrition Assuris Group as they explore the requirements for filing a Due Diligence Statement under EUDR.  Tune in as they discuss the due diligence statement or DDS, which is one of the 3 necessary conditions for EUDR compliance, in order to import or export relevant products to or from the EU market. Don't miss this informative podcast on navigating compliance in an evolving regulatory landscape!

Speaker:

Lois Haighton- Senior Director, Toxicology & Project Operations, Food & Nutrition Group, Intertek AssurisJayne Ste...


ISCC Series: Introduction to the ISCC Certification—Driving Sustainability and Traceability
#10
04/15/2025

In today’s episode, our Intertek’s expert, Florencia Bahamonde, dives into the ISCC Certifications. ISCC standards drive sustainability and traceability across the supply chains, supporting companies to track certified materials at every stage, preventing fraud and ensuring that sustainability claims are verifiable.  

Speakers: 

Moderator: Catherine Beare, Regional Director Business Assurance, UK and Iberia at Intertek Presenter: Florencia Bahamonde, ISCC Senior Global Program Manager at Intertek 

Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn.


CSRD Series: CSRD Best Practices in the Oil and Gas Sector
#9
03/27/2025

What CSRD best practices look like in the oil and gas sector!

As the CSRD reporting requirements start to kick in for a number of sectors this year, in this podcast we explore the current key themes and what ‘good’ looks like generally for sustainability in the oil and gas industry.  

Speakers:  

Catherine Beare the Regional Director - Intertek Business Assurance UK & Iberia  Yannick Garcia, Regional Director - Intertek Caleb Brett  

For more information, please do go and visit our website  www.intertek.com/assurance/EU-CSRD. 

 

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EUDR Compliance Along the Supply Chain
#8
03/24/2025

In this episode, join scientific consultants Lois Haighton, Luke Gwenter, and Karen Ngo from Intertek’s Food & Nutrition Assuris Group as they explore the new guidance, “Understanding your company position in cattle, cocoa, coffee, palm oil, rubber, soy, and wood supply chains”  that the European Union has just released to help companies comply with the EUDR. Tune in as they discuss the requirements and responsibilities of an operator or trader, by illustrating different scenarios within the supply chain for the seven commodities. Don't miss this informative podcast on navigating compliance in an evolving regulatory landscape!

Speakers:

L...


Water Efficiency And The Link To ISO 46001
#7
03/20/2025

In this episode, David Muil, Global VP of Sustainability for Intertek, explains the importance of water efficiency and how organizations can benefit from implementing ISO 46001:2019, the Water Efficiency Management System standard. 

The discussion covers the core components of the standard, its environmental and financial benefits, and real-world examples of companies achieving significant water savings. This episode offers valuable insights for businesses looking to optimize water use, reduce costs, and enhance sustainability through effective water management practices. Tune in now!

To connect with one of our experts today, email us at business.assurance@intertek.com


Biodegradability Series: Understanding Biodegradability – Breaking Down the Facts
#6
03/17/2025

Biodegradability is more than just a buzzword—it’s a key factor in reducing environmental impact and ensuring a sustainable future. In this episode of Assurance in Action, Dhanashree Bhelose, Senior Business Development Manager, Environmental Services at Intertek, joins the conversation to break down what biodegradability really means, its role in sustainability, and common misconceptions—like the difference between biodegradable and compostable materials. We also explore how businesses can integrate biodegradable materials responsibly without falling into the trap of greenwashing.

From certification and testing to overcoming challenges in implementation, this episode provides valuable insigh...


Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®): Unlocking the Power of FSC® & Chain of Custody Certification
#5
02/27/2025

Join us for an insightful discussion on the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®) and Chain of Custody certification with Catherine Beare and Ciara McCarthy from Intertek. In this episode, we explore the significance of FSC® in responsible forest management, its impact on businesses and consumers, and how certification ensures trust, transparency, and sustainability across industries.

In this podcast, we also uncover surprising industries that rely on FSC® certification, from furniture and packaging to textiles and even car tires! Tune in to learn how FSC® certification works, who needs it, and the challenges and solutions in m...