Boost food hygiene controls with Loma’s IP69K-rated inspection systems

Loma’s latest line-up of IQ3+ Metal Detection and X⁵ X-ray contaminant inspection systems and are designed to withstand high-pressure hot steam jet cleaning of up to 1,450psi. Constructed using top-quality 304L stainless steel makes the systems food safe and reduces the risk of corrosion. In creating these newly designed systems, Loma engineers have paid particular attention to eliminating the nooks, crannies and food traps where liquid can pool and microorganisms can thrive. Features like rounded surfaces helps to speed up the drying process, avoid water collecting and the likelihood of microorganisms breeding.

Stressing the importance of IP69K sanitisation in food safety, Loma’s UK sales manager Tony Bryant says, “Careful design and layout of processing equipment in conjunction with regular, thorough cleaning of the processing environment, is critical to protecting public health. The Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) principles are in place to assist food producers in their quest to prevent and inspect for dangerous contaminants and foreign bodies. This extends to evaluating the hazards that could affect food safety, such as the likelihood of a listeria outbreak.”

Although rare, there are on average about 180 cases of listeriosis reported to the UK Food Standards Agency each year. A presence, or suggestion of that Listeria was initiated at a facility, can seriously tarnish a food producer’s brand image. In addition to the cost of taking corrective action and recalling a range, production may be suspended, impacting earnings and profits long-term.

The listeria bacteria can be especially prevalent in chilled ‘ready-to-eat’ foods, with pre-packed sandwiches, pâté, butter, soft rinded cheese, cooked sliced meats and smoked salmon being the most ‘at risk’ products highlights NHS Choices.