Food recall protocol key to reduce public health risks and loss of reputation

Posted by Editorial on 25th March 2009

In order to minimise public health risks and loss of reputation, Pro-Visual Publishing is encouraging food manufacturing companies to follow Food Standards Australia and New Zealand’s new recall protocol in their 2009 edition of the Food Manufacturing Industry Guide to Safety.

The safety guide, which will be distributed free of charge in April, covers the key topics of the new Food Standards protocol, which was released earlier this month, and encourages business to implement a food recall program to ensure the affected product is removed from sale efficiently and effectively.

Also covered in the Guide is what should be included in a recall plan, which if followed, will help to reduce the risk to the public and minimises any adverse publicity the company might receive as a result of the recall.

Cathy Moir from Food Science Australia believes the Guide provides an effective channel to keep food safety messages ever present in the workplace.

“Product recalls are designed to protect the health and well being of the consumer,” she said. “This year’s Food Manufacturing Industry Guide to Safety is a vital resource in helping to keep the food manufacturing industry informed of the importance of having a Food Recall Plan.”

The issue of food safety is a major one for consumers, with a study released last year indicating the majority would change shopping habits after hearing about safety issues – highlighting the need for manufacturers to have effective plans in place. The peanut butter and melamine scandals overseas have further emphasised the potential for disaster of a ineffective food safety plan.

The guide is directed to all food processing companies throughout Australia by Pro-Visual Publishing. Additional copies are available and all Guides are produced and distributed without cost thanks to sponsorship.