Managing Your Risk

The recent e. coli outbreak with romaine lettuce served as a reminder to food and beverage processors about the importance of prioritizing food safety. Recalls not only harm public health but also have severe consequences for a company's profits and consumer trust. To prevent recalls and ensure product safety, food and beverage manufacturers should focus on creating a sanitary plant design that eliminates hygienic hazards before they contaminate products and cause foodborne illnesses. Sanitary plant design involves three key principles: creating zones of separation and control, controlling temperature and moisture, and ensuring easy cleaning and maintenance. Zoning separates production areas to prevent cross-contamination, with raw food processing areas kept separate from areas handling finished products. A linear production flow helps control movement within the facility and minimizes the risk of product crossover. Controlled access points and sanitation stations further prevent cross-contamination. Temperature and airflow control are critical in inhibiting microbial growth. HVAC units and refrigeration systems should maintain optimal temperatures, control air dew points, and filter and pressurize air to prevent outside contaminants from entering the facility. Proper ventilation and air pressure help maintain different hygiene zones. Sanitary design also involves ensuring that the facility and equipment are easy to clean and maintain. Flooring plays a vital role in preventing bacterial growth, with materials like urethane concrete coating or vitrified tiles providing durability and resistance to chemicals and wear. Sloped floors with drains and cove bases help manage water accumulation and prevent water from seeping into walls. Insulated metal panels (IMPs) are commonly used for walls and ceilings due to their hygienic properties and durability. They have solid, flat surfaces that can be easily cleaned and are resistant to chemicals. When selecting equipment, food and beverage manufacturers should choose nonporous, easy-to-clean options made of high-grade stainless steel. Clean-in-place (CIP) functionality reduces the need for manual cleaning and ensures repeatability. The placement of equipment should allow enough space for maintenance and cleaning. Elevating equipment off the floor and away from walls facilitates access and cleaning. Exterior elements should not be overlooked, as they can also impact food safety. Using a thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) roof instead of a ballasted roof prevents leaks and bacterial contamination. TPO roofs do not require a gravel ballast, reducing costs and eliminating ballast-related issues. In summary, a well-designed sanitary plant considers zoning, temperature and moisture control, easy cleaning and maintenance, and exterior elements to prevent contamination, ensure food safety, and minimize the risk of recalls and public health issues.