Control Metal Contamination to Avoid Food Recalls
Control Metal Contamination to Avoid Food RecallsFood recalls are popping up in the headlines. Metal contaminants found in a breakfast sausage prompted a recent food recall.
The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has not received any injury reports. But, five consumer complaints about the product containing metal prompted a recall.
Many consumers are unaware of the steps a food manufacturer
endures to be compliant with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) ensures the safest products for consumers.
Throughout the food manufacturing process, metal control is critical. The equipment used for controlling metal must be tested and maintained under the FDA FSMA Compliance Checklist.
Factory Magnet Certification
Every new piece of magnetic separation equipment should ship with a certificate. The certificate validates the performance from the factory of your magnetic separator. This may include pull values on contact with a ¼”, ½” and/or 1” ball and/or Gauss values.
The magnet’s serial number should match the certificate. If no, get a replacement certificate from the manufacturer.
Product Manuals and Drawings
All product manuals and/or drawings should have the following sections documenting:
- Cleaning instructions
- Proper testing methods
- Preventative maintenance
- Spare parts
- Exploded parts view
Weld Specifications
Weld and finish specifications should be documented. This ensures your magnet’s construction meets the proper sanitary standards for your industry.
Cleaning
Maintain a regular cleaning schedule and document each time it is completed. Don’t forget to make adjustments. If you find your magnet is becoming saturated with metal between cleanings, increase your frequency of cleanings.
Magnet Audit
Test magnet at least yearly and document results. Contact a metal solutions expert if results are decreasing from factory established
performance measurements.
MPI and select Sales Channel Partners use Certified Manager Auditors who will conduct onsite magnet audits. Contact MPI to schedule an audit.
