Serrano foodtech

Food machinery regulations and rules: What companies need to know to comply with safety and quality standards.

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Key rules and regulations for businesses:

1. International Legislation

Companies must comply with specific regulations depending on the country or region in which they operate. Some of the most relevant are:

  • European Union:
    • Regulation EC 1935/2004: Regulates food contact materials (FCM). It requires that materials do not transfer hazardous substances to food.
    • Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC: Establishes requirements for the safe design of machinery.
    • Standards EN 1672-2 and EN ISO 14159: Define hygiene requirements for the design of food machinery.
  • USA:
    • FDA (Food and Drug Administration): Regulates food contact materials (21 CFR 174-178) and the hygienic design of equipment.
    • USDA (United States Department of Agriculture): Oversees equipment related to meat, poultry, and dairy products.
  • Codex Alimentarius (international): Provides general guidelines to ensure food safety.

2. Safety and Hygienic Design Requirements

Food machinery must be designed with a focus on safety and hygiene. Key aspects include:

  • Food-safe materials:
    • Corrosion resistance, easy cleaning, and non-contaminating.
    • Use of food-grade stainless steel, certified polymers, and approved seals.
  • Ease of cleaning:
    • Designs that avoid corners and crevices where debris can accumulate.
    • Cleaning-in-place (CIP) systems.
  • Cross contamination prevention:
    • Separation of clean and dirty areas.
    • Control of lubricants and other chemicals in machinery.
  • Worker protection systems:
    • Guards on moving parts.
    • Compliance with regulations such as ISO 13849 (safety in control systems).

Failure to comply with current regulations may result in legal sanctions, product recalls, damage to brand reputation, and risks to public health.

3. Relevant Certifications

Obtaining certifications ensures regulatory compliance and increases consumer confidence. Some common certifications include:

  • ISO 22000: Food Safety Management System.
  • BRCGS (Global Standard for Food Safety): Specific requirements for manufacturers and suppliers.
  • NSF International: Certification of food-safe equipment and materials.

4. Tests and Validations

Before placing machinery on the market or using it, tests must be carried out to ensure compliance with regulations:

  • Migration testing (for food contact materials).
  • Hygienic design inspection.
  • Electrical and mechanical safety testing.
  • HPP (High-Pressure Processing): Use of high pressure to extend the shelf life of fresh produce without the need for preservatives.
  • Microwave and ultrasonic: Automated methods for fast and efficient cooking or pasteurization processes.

5. Supervision and Maintenance

  • Implement a preventive maintenance program to prevent failures and contamination.
  • Train operators in the safe use and cleaning of machinery.

Starting from specific specifications in each case, we carry out the design and comprehensive production of Complete Lines that cover the specific needs of each client. Tell us about your needs and we will carry out a personalized project that adapts to your requirements. If you wish, we can work together from the beginning of the activity, renew your equipment or adapt to your new needs. Together, we are stronger. Each Project is unique and personal. Our capacity and experience enable us to tackle any possible project within the Food sector.