What Does Safety Mean in Food Processing?
Safety in food processing can conjure multiple images and definitions depending on who you ask. Responses will reflect different priorities, perspectives, and roles in the food system.
A consumer may say, “Safety means knowing the food I buy won't make me or my family sick. It means clear labeling about allergens and ingredients so I can make informed choices.”
A food safety regulator may say, “Safety means adherence to evidence-based protocols that prevent biological, chemical, and physical hazards throughout the entire food production chain, from farm to table."
A food processing worker may say, “Safety means proper training and equipment to prevent injuries while handling machinery, chemicals, and high-temperature processes. It also means reasonable work hours to prevent accidents from fatigue."
All of these responses are valid. Ultimately, safety in food processing refers to procedures, practices, and controls used to make sure food is free from harmful contaminants and safe for consumption. Food safety is everything involved in food processing from production to consumption to ensure the food does not produce harm. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), “Food safety refers to the conditions and practices that preserve the quality of food to prevent contamination and food-borne illnesses.”
Food Safety Organizations
There are many, likely thousands of food safety organizations around the world that help educate, set standards and regulations, and develop research and policies. Food safety organizations may be a function across governments and private organizations. Three common food safety organizations are the FDA, HACCP International, and the Food Standards Agency (FSA).
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
The FDA is a U.S. federal agency that is responsible for protecting public health by ensuring the safety and efficacy of food, drugs, cosmetics, and other similar products. They regulate the safety and effectiveness of medicines, biologics, and medical devices. The FDA aims to ensure safety, protect and promote public health, educate consumers, and regulate many products.
HACCP International
HACCP International, Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point, is a renowned certification specializing in the certification of food safe equipment, products and services that support the food industry across the globe. HACCP International prioritizes and controls potential hazards in food production. By controlling major food risks, such as microbiological, chemical, and physical contaminants, the food industry can better assure consumers that products are as safe as science and technology allows. To learn more, check out the article, “Types of Food Safety Certifications.”
Food Standards Agency
The FSA's objectives, powers, and duties are primarily set out in the Food Standards Act 1999. The agency operates across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, with its main objectives being to protect public health from risks arising from the consumption of food and to protect the interests of consumers in relation to food.
The FSA is committed to driving change in the food system to deliver better outcomes for consumers. It ensures that food is safe and accurately represented, and it contributes to making food healthier and more sustainable for everyone. The agency works across the food system to promote transparency and openness, facilitate compliance with high food standards, and make it easier for businesses to do the right thing.
KADANT'S ROLE
Kadant is committed to supporting our food processing customers. Kadant U.K. Limited and Kadant Solutions manufacture HACCP International food safe certified blades, blade holders, and roll cleaning systems. This means that our Kadant HACCP International products meet the rigorous standards needed to become part of food processing. Three popular food processing systems are the VeriLite™ and VeriKleen™ roll cleaner assemblies and the AccuFlake™ PRO blade holder which is designed specifically for drum dryer flaker applications.
As we’ve learned, safety in food processing encompasses a variety of activities, organizations, regulations, education, and more. The most important thing is to understand what it means to you and your organization, and to understand there are communities to help.
