In food factories, washing plays a crucial role in removing hazards from products.
The Hazards of Products in Food Processing
① Biological Hazards
Contamination by microbes (bacteria and viruses) → food poisoning
② Physical Hazards
Contamination by physical substances → foreign matter (solids)
Contamination by allergens
③ Chemical Hazards
Contamination by chemicals (residual, contamination from other sources, or misuse)
There are 5 main purposes of cleaning at food factories.
- To remove microbes, their nutrient sources, and habitats
- Insect and rodent control (removal of nutrient sources, nests, and outbreaks)
- To prevent contamination by foreign objects or substances
- To maintain normal operation of machinery and equipment
- To ensure a safe working environment