How does HublerX know which materials are approved alternates?

HublerX reads the approved substitute materials from the ERP material master — the alternate material codes, substitution ratios, and any usage restrictions recorded by R&D or quality. Where alternate material data is maintained in a separate R&D system or quality database, HublerX can integrate with that system to retrieve the approved substitution matrix.

How does the regulatory and labelling check work?

HublerX checks the alternate material against the finished product's declared ingredient list and allergen statement. Where the alternate introduces a new ingredient or changes an existing allergen declaration, the substitution is flagged as requiring a label change before use. The QA team is alerted to confirm whether the substitution is approved for the specific batch or market.

Can a substitution be activated for part of a work order quantity?

Yes. Where an alternate material is available in a quantity less than the full work order requirement, HublerX calculates the partial substitution — using the alternate for the available quantity and flagging the remaining requirement as still short. The planner can approve the partial substitution and simultaneously trigger alternate sourcing for the remaining quantity.

Is the substitution decision recorded for the batch record and quality audit?

Yes. Every substitution is recorded in HublerX with the primary material, the alternate material used, the batch affected, the substitution ratio applied, the approving planner, the reason for substitution, and the QA manager notified. The record is linked to the work order and is available for FSSC 22000, BRC, and customer audit submissions.

Alternate Material Substitution

When a raw material is unavailable, HublerX surfaces the approved alternate materials — with their current stock position, quality clearance status, and regulatory compliance — so the planner can activate a substitution before the production line stops.