What grade did your most recent BRC v9 audit receive (AA, A, B, C, D), and when was it conducted?

Answer should specify grade (AA highest, D lowest) and exact audit date. AA or A within the last 12 months is a strong signal.

How many major non-conformities were recorded, and against which Fundamental Requirement?

A major non-conformity against any Fundamental Requirement triggers certificate withdrawal or non-issuance. Acceptable answer: zero, or specific requirement listed.

Corrective action timeline, and are any non-conformities still open?

Open non-conformities beyond 28 days are a red flag. Acceptable answer: all closed with documentary evidence.

What countries sourced your raw nuts in the last quarter?

Answer must name specific countries (Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Vietnam, Cambodia...) with shares. "Asia", "Africa", or "multiple sources" is not acceptable.

What is your documented supplier approval workflow for new raw materials?

Must include risk-based approval pathway, periodic review frequency, and documented exception process when sourcing from unapproved supplier in emergencies.

What is your facility allergen management policy on tree-nut cross-contact?

Cashew is a top-tier allergen. Multi-tree-nut facilities require documented cross-contact controls across packaging, ingredients, and visitor protocols.

Can you execute a traceability exercise within 4 hours on a sample lot?

BRC v9 expectation: forward and backward traceability achieved within 4 hours, full chain from raw-nut source through packed lot and customer shipment.