How to prioritise food safety within the
confines of strict regulation
There’s no greater priority in the food
and beverage industry than food safety.
With the average significant product
recall claim currently standing at
around £9Million, without counting the
associated brand damage, it’s clear to see
the damage caused by breaching food
safety regulations. Reducing machine
downtime and maximising factory output
and limiting environmental impact are
high priorities, and it’s a challenge to
prioritise all three areas without having to
make compromises. Here’s how you can
succeed in all three areas.
Reduce potential for bacteria growth
To effectively prioritise food safety,
potential for bacteria growth needs to
be minimised. Bacteria thrive in moist
environments, making production lines an
ideal breeding ground and high pressure
washdowns can spread bacteria causing
further contamination. If bearings aren’t
effectively sealed, bacteria can enter and
multiply within it.
Easy-clean, allergen-free industry
certified machine components,
incorporating smooth surfaces and
angled edges promote self-draining,
Eliminate relubrication requirements
Optimal lubrication maximises
component life by reducing friction and
allowing bacteria to be washed away. protecting against contamination and
Increase production uptime from components during washdowns
Eliminating all downtime is virtually
impossible, however, aiming for only
planned downtime to perform proactive
maintenance is achievable. Ensure
components are fit-for-purpose and not
overloaded - a good distributor will work
corrosion. However, grease often leaks
or due to seal damage, creating food
hygiene issues. To prevent serious
contamination, food-grade lubrication
should be used. However, even when
using these lubricants, it’s important to
prevent lubricant leakage.
The chance of machine breakdown is also
reduced, as 36% of premature bearing
failures are due to poor lubrication
practices.
Increase sustainability
How can sustainability be effectively
prioritised without compromising on food
safety, profits and production?
Firstly, limit your grease usage by using
relubrication free bearings. Lubricant
production has a huge environmental
impact, and waste lubricant disposal
with you to check component suitability. Relubrication-free bearings are an Remember, a reduced initial outlay may effective way of reducing leakages and be tempting, but consider the cost of maintenance by eliminating potential seal downtime in the event of failure. damage due to over-greasing. components will reduce the number of
Maintenance-free components such as By removing relubrication, food safety is less landfill waste.
SKF’s Food Line bearings are an excellent improved, maintenance is minimised and option, as they don’t require regular costs are reduced.
downtime for routine maintenance.
28 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
causes water pollution. Choosing
high-quality sustainably manufactured
components manufactured and create
Acorn Industrial Services Ltd,
www.acorn-ind.co.uk/skf