Introduction
Food safety is an essential concept in the food service industry, as it ensures that food is safe to consume and prevents the spread of foodborne illness. While the government and industry have set regulations to ensure the safety of food products. Food safety is a collective effort from all the food supply chain members that involves proper handling, processing, and distribution of food to ensure that no contaminants that can lead to foodborne illnesses are present. It is essential to protect the health and well-being of consumers from any possible food-related issues. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of food safety in the food service industry and how food wholesalers can incorporate it into their operations. We will also explore the benefits of food safety for food wholesalers.
Why is food safety important?
Food safety is important because it helps ensure that our food is safe and free from any potentially harmful contaminants. Foodborne illnesses can cause severe health issues and even death, so it is essential to ensure food is prepared and handled safely. Additionally, food safety is essential for protecting the consumer’s trust in the food they purchase and protecting the reputation of food producers and suppliers.
According to WHO,
- An estimated 600 million – almost 1 in 10 people in the world – fall ill after eating contaminated food, and 420 000 die yearly, resulting in the loss of 33 million healthy life years (DALYs).
- 92£ billion is lost yearly in productivity and medical expenses resulting from unsafe food in low- and middle-income countries.
- Children under 5 years carry 40% of the foodborne disease burden, with 125 000 deaths yearly.
- Foodborne diseases impede socioeconomic development by straining healthcare systems and harming national economies, tourism, and trade.
Different Types of Food Safety Regulations
In general, the following pieces of legislation apply to the food industry:
The Food Safety Act of 1990
The Food Safety Act of 1990 and its regulations make it an offence for anyone to sell or process food for sale which is harmful to health. They also obligate businesses to ensure that their activities are carried out hygienically.
The General Food Regulations 2004
They prohibit placing unsafe food on the market, prohibit labelling, advertising or presentation of food from misleading consumers and impose traceability obligations on food business operators and obligations to act where food is not in compliance with food safety requirements.
The Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013
The 2013 Regulations set forth stringent rules regarding the supervision and oversight of processes that are essential for food safety, the tidiness of premises and supplies, the regulation of temperatures in the preparation, storage, and service of food, the hygienic practices of food preparation, the personal hygiene of people working with food, and the disposal of waste.
Food Information Regulations 2014
The Food Information Regulations 2014 (FIR) are a set of European regulations that came into force in England, Wales and Northern Ireland in 2014. The rules set out what information must be provided to consumers when they purchase food products and provide a framework for food labelling and packaging. The laws cover allergens, nutrition, ingredients and origin information, food safety and hygiene information. They apply to all food-related businesses that sell directly to consumers, such as supermarkets, restaurants, cafes, and takeaways.
How can food wholesalers implement Food Safety Practices
Food Wholesalers can implement food safety practices to ensure food products are safe to consume.
Proper storage and handling of food
Proper storage and handling of food products are essential for food safety in the food service industry. Food products must be stored at the correct temperature and humidity levels to prevent contamination and spoilage. Food products must be handled with care to avoid cross-contamination. Food wholesalers should also prevent contamination from outside sources, such as pests, dust, and other contaminants. Food products should also be stored away from chemicals and other hazardous materials to prevent contamination. Proper storage and handling of food products are essential for ensuring they are safe to consume.
Proper labelling of food products
Labelling should include information about the ingredients, allergens, and other potential risks. This ensures that customers are aware of any potential health risks associated with consuming the product. Food wholesalers should ensure that their labelling is up to date and in compliance with any applicable regulations. Proper labelling of food products is essential for ensuring that food products are safe to consume and that customers are informed of potential risks.
Regular inspection and maintenance of equipment
Equipment should be inspected regularly to ensure it is in proper working order and not contaminated with hazardous materials. Food wholesalers should also ensure that their staff is properly trained in using the equipment and following appropriate hygiene protocols. Additionally, food wholesalers should ensure that their equipment is properly cleaned and maintained regularly.
Benefits of Food Safety for Food Wholesalers
Food safety is beneficial for food wholesalers in many ways.
Builds customer trust and loyalty.
Implementing food safety practices can help build customer trust and loyalty for food wholesalers. Customers are more likely to purchase from businesses that demonstrate a commitment to food safety, as this ensures that the products, they are buying are safe to consume. They are more likely to return to a business and recommend it to others if they know that the business takes food safety seriously. Implementing proper food safety practices is essential for food wholesalers to build customer trust and loyalty.
Minimizes health risks for customers and employees.
Ensuring food products are properly stored, handled, and labelled can help prevent the spread of foodborne illness, as customers and employees are less likely to be exposed to contaminated food. It can help reduce the risk of cross-contamination and ensure food products are safe to consume.
Reduces legal liabilities.
Food safety practices can also help reduce legal liabilities for food wholesalers. Proper storage and handling of food products can help prevent contamination and spoilage, which can lead to legal action if customers become ill from consuming the product. Also, properly labelling food products can help protect food wholesalers from potential lawsuits related to allergens or other potential risks. Food wholesalers should comply with all applicable regulations to reduce their legal liabilities.
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Conclusion
Food safety is an essential concept in the food service industry, as it ensures that food is safe to consume and prevents the spread of foodborne illness. Food wholesalers can incorporate food safety into their operations by properly storing and handling food products, labelling, and regular equipment inspection and maintenance. Food safety benefits food wholesalers as it can help build customer trust and loyalty, minimize health risks for customers and employees, and reduce legal liabilities.
