As pharmaceutical auditors, we know that cultural differences are real and often show up when we least expect them. One lesson I learned during my years of auditing around the globe? Sometimes, the biggest surprises come during lunch breaks.

When Lunch Isn’t On the Menu

Most of us are used to the idea that when you’re auditing, the host company provides lunch. It’s almost an unspoken rule. So, during an audit in the United States, my team and I assumed the same. As lunchtime approached, the aroma of food drifted in from the adjacent coffee corner. When the door opened, we could almost taste the meal.

We proposed a 45-minute lunch break, and the hosts agreed—then left the room. Naturally, we thought they’d return with trays of food. Five minutes later, nothing. Ten minutes later, still nothing. Finally, we ventured out to check.

That’s when we learned the truth: FDA inspectors should never accept company-provided lunches. Our hosts assumed we’d follow the same rule. The solution? They kindly gave us directions to nearby restaurants. A humbling reminder: assumptions can lead to hunger!

Interestingly, this was the only time this happened in the U.S., despite completing more than 30 audits there. You live and learn.

The Kentucky Fried Experience

In another country, hospitality took a different turn. Lunch was provided—KFC. Delivered at 11 a.m., the boxes of fried chicken and fries sat patiently on a chair at the back of the meeting room, filling the air with that unmistakable fried aroma. By 12:15, when we finally stopped for lunch, our meal was room temperature. We ate gratefully, as we always do, respecting the effort made by our hosts. But let’s just say: cold fried chicken isn’t quite the same experience.

The Italian Marathon Lunch

Now, for what I consider a true audit no-no. During an audit in Italy, the facility didn’t have an onsite cafeteria, so they suggested a nearby restaurant. We requested something quick and simple. “Nearby” turned out to be a 40-minute drive, and “quick” became a three-course meal lasting 2.5 hours, complete with wine (which we politely declined). By the time we returned, the scheduled audit time was nearly gone. To their credit, the auditee allowed us to continue until 8 p.m. Still, a long, wine-filled lunch in the middle of an audit? Definitely not ideal.

Key Takeaways

1. Never assume anything about lunch during audits. Cultural norms differ widely, and what’s standard in one country might be unheard of in another.
2. Flexibility and respect go a long way. Whether you’re eating cold KFC or finding your own lunch spot, adapting to local customs keeps the audit professional and positive.

If you’d like to read more of my stories and lessons from audits worldwide, visit my blog at https://www.djpc.eu/blog/ under the Supplier Audits category.

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