INDUSTRY: FOOD PROCESSING/SERVICE
Food processing is the transformation of agricultural products into food, or of one form of food into other forms. Primary food processing is necessary to make most foods edible, and secondary food processing turns the ingredients into familiar foods, such as bread.
The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) controls all the regulations related to items that are added to food (i.e. direct additives) and items that may come in contact with food (i.e. indirect additives). The food contact materials are described in the Code of Federal Legislation (CFR): 21 CFR 174 - 21 CFR 190.
When it comes to food processing and food handling, safety is the biggest concern. It starts with the people involved in the production process and carries through to the consumer. The slightest trace of contamination can ruin an entire line, and if not caught and managed, it can lead to illness or death of the consumer. These drastic outcomes are preventable by following the safety standards that are in place and enforced when preparing, producing, and selling food.
Personal Protective Equipment (P.P.E.)
Wearing personal protective equipment is one of the first necessities when working with food. Starting out with clean hands and wearing the proper gloves will protect you from contracting and passing germs and pathogenic micro-organisms (i.e. Salmonella, E-Coli), especially when handling raw meat and produce. When switching from one type of food to another, it is important to change gloves to prevent cross-contamination. Metal-detectable and colored gloves help identify food contamination while disposable bouffant caps, hair nets and beard covers prevent stray hairs from tainting the food you may be working with. Stainless steel mesh gloves are commonly used by meat and poultry butchers while deli personnel typically use deli type gloves.
Sanitary Surfaces
Maintaining a germ-free work area can also stop cross-contamination and prevent food-borne illnesses. Prevent harmful mold and bacteria that can build up and ruin food products instantly, especially with the use of mixing, grinding, chopping, slicing and emulsifying equipment. This can be prevented with the proper use of correct cleaning products, which can range from microfiber cloths and paper towels to disinfecting agents and chemicals. Wiping down all hard surfaces and equipment between uses with a surface sanitizer will help reduce the risk of contamination and help ensure everyone’s safety and health. Body Fluid Spill Kits feature head-to-toe personal protection and cleanup producs to comply with FDA requirements for responding to unplanned accidents that involve vomit, blood and feces.
Once prepared, storing food can be challenging and potentially dangerous if not done correctly. It is essential for any restaurant, café, or food service company to keep bulk food sealed in proper food storage containers to prolong quality and minimize contamination. Food approved desiccants help prevent moisture, mold and prolong food quality. With the right industrial bins, pans and plant-based PLA food service packaging supplies, you can stay organized, serve fresh quality products and reduce landfill waste.
