Food factories have dramatically changed the way people consume food. Thanks to creative designs and intricate arrangements of components like belting and gears, they’ve made it possible to carefully contain a large volume of food products for safe storage and shipment. However, without dedication and conscientiousness, contamination remains a risk. Here are some universal tips for preventing this at your food processing or packing plant.

How to Reduce Contamination at a Food Factory

1. Clean Regularly

A consistent cleaning schedule is essential to prevent contamination. Any pieces that directly interact with the food or the packaging, such as the belting on a conveyor, must be rigorously cleaned and disinfected; this includes tasks like vacuuming, wiping, scrubbing, rinsing, and drying the piece thoroughly. Always refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for which cleaning agents to use on the material.

2. Replace Broken Components

No matter how small a piece may be, any cracks or tears in it should be repaired or replaced immediately. Not only can they serve as hiding places for food scraps or bacteria, but they also make cleaning difficult. For example, if you have cracked belting, scrubbing the surface only pushes the grime further into the crevices instead of removing it.

3. Enforce Cleanliness Standards for Personnel

Aside from the machinery, the workers must also be vigilant about their personal hygiene and cleanliness. For instance, even with the correct protective gear like impermeable gloves, hands must always be washed and sanitized before handling the equipment. In addition to making expectations clear to your employees, a supervisor should also be on the lookout for possible misconduct.

If it’s time to replace any belting, fittings, or gaskets at your food factory, contact D & M Hydraulic Sales & Service. For more than 30 years, they’ve provided businesses throughout Hawaii with the industrial components and tools required to run daily operations. With six branches throughout the state, they’ll accommodate your needs wherever you’re located. To learn more about their inventory, call them today at (808) 671-2420 or send them a message through their website.