Food production is a booming industry, and there are many reasons for this. The food and beverage industry is among the most profitable and fastest-growing sectors in the United States. In 2020, it generated a revenue of $1.5 trillion. This sector expects to grow to $2 trillion by 2025.
The food industry is an integral part of the US economy. It provides millions of people jobs and significantly contributes to the country’s GDP. The industry is also one of America’s most significant energy and water consumers.
Despite its importance, the food industry has been scrutinized recently for its safety practices. In particular, the manufacturing process of food has been criticized for its potential to contaminate food with harmful bacteria and other contaminants.
The FDA estimates that there are approximately 48 million cases of foodborne illness in the United States annually. These illnesses result in 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths.
While the food industry has taken steps to improve food safety, there is still room for improvement. Below are some tips on how to handle the manufacturing process in a way that minimizes the risk of contamination.
Daily Sanitation Practices
Practicing good sanitation is one of the most important things you can do to ensure food safety. It means regular cleaning and disinfecting of all surfaces that come into contact with food. It’s also important to wash your hands thoroughly and often, especially after handling raw meat or poultry.
You should also have a system for dealing with potential sources of contamination. It might include having separate cutting boards for raw meat and produce, using color-coded knives, and avoiding cross-contamination by keeping cooked and uncooked food separate.
In addition, it’s essential to keep up with regular maintenance on all food-processing equipment. It includes things like making sure there are no cracks or crevices where bacteria can hide and ensuring that all surfaces are smooth so they get adequately cleaned.
It’s also essential to have a plan for dealing with potential problems. For example, you should know what to do if there is a power outage or the water supply is interrupted.
In general, good sanitation practices are crucial to minimizing the risk of contamination during the manufacturing process.
Pest Control
Another critical aspect of food safety is pest control. Pests can spread disease and contaminate food, so keeping them out of your facility is essential.
There are a few ways to do this. First, you can ensure that all entry points get sealed tight so that pests can’t get in. You should also regularly inspect your facility for signs of problems and address any infestations quickly.
You can also take steps to make your facility less attractive to pests. For example, you can store food in airtight containers and clean all surfaces.
It’s also essential to have a plan for dealing with pests if they get into your facility. This might include using traps or pesticides.
Pest control is an essential part of the food safety process. By taking measures to prevent and deal with pests, you can minimize the risk of contamination during manufacturing.
Non-Contact Machines
One of the best ways to reduce contamination risk is using non-contact machines. These are machines that don’t come into direct contact with food.
Examples of non-contact machines include conveyor belts, packaging machines, and robotics. Using these machines can minimize the risk of contamination because there is less chance for human error.
A high-quality air actuator will be critical when dabbling with beverages and other non-contact food items. The actuator is a device that helps with the movement of air and, in this case, will be used to help seal off containers quickly.
Pneumatic actuators are commonly used in machines because they work in wet or humid environments. It means they’re less likely to rust, which could contaminate food.
When choosing packaging materials, selecting materials compatible with the food you’re packaging is essential. For example, certain plastics can release harmful chemicals into food.
It’s also important to consider the environment where the food will get stored. For example, some materials might not be suitable for freezing or high temperatures.
Non-contact machines are an essential part of the food safety process. By using them, you can reduce the risk of contamination during manufacturing.
Final Thoughts
Food safety is essential to the manufacturing process. By taking measures to prevent and control contamination, you can ensure that your products are safe for consumption. Non-contact machines can help reduce the risk of contamination, and pest control is essential for preventing the spread of disease. Good sanitation practices are also crucial for minimizing the risk of contamination. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your manufacturing process is safe and efficient.
