The Essential Role of Air Cleaning in Food Processing Facilities

When discussing food processing facilities, topics like temperature control, sterilization, and supply chain logistics often take center stage. But there’s another essential factor that tends to be overlooked: air quality. This comprehensive blog post aims to shine a light on the importance of air cleaning in food processing and how the AirROS Surface & Air Purification system offers a superior, standards-compliant solution.

Why Is Air Cleaning In Food Processing So Important?

Contamination Prevention

Microbes love to travel through the air, and some can survive longer than you’d think. Even if you sterilize your equipment and surfaces, airborne bacteria, molds, and dust can still compromise your food safety. An effective air cleaning system is the first line of defense against these invisible threats, significantly reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Extending Shelf Life

Oxidation and microbial spoilage can drastically reduce the shelf life of food items. Effective air cleaning technology can reduce these factors, extending the longevity of perishable goods. This leads to less waste and, consequently, a boost in profitability.

Regulatory Compliance

Food processing is an industry heavily regulated by various health agencies. Employing an advanced air sanitation measure helps ensure that your facility meets, or even exceeds, these rigorous standards.

Enhanced Work Environment

Let’s not forget about the human factor. A facility that prioritizes clean air will also enhance the well-being and productivity of its workers. This not only improves employee satisfaction but also reduces sick days and the potential for contaminating food.

Meeting Regulatory Standards: FSMA & HACCP

Compliance with food safety regulations is non-negotiable. Let’s take a look at two essential frameworks and how air cleaning in food processing fits into them.

Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)

FSMA shifts the focus from managing contamination incidents as they occur to taking preventive measures. A pro-active approach like that offered by the AirROS system perfectly aligns with FSMA guidelines, particularly those related to preventive controls.

Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP)

HACCP is a management system that addresses food safety through the analysis and control of biological, chemical, and physical hazards. Employing an air cleaning system like AirROS can be integral to your HACCP plan, enabling you to establish Critical Control Points (CCPs) specifically related to air and surface sanitation.

The Shortcomings of Traditional Methods

It’s essential to understand the limitations of traditional air cleaning methods, such as HEPA filters and chemical sanitizers. HEPA filters do not kill microbes; they merely trap them. Also, HEPA filters do not sanitize surfaces, leaving room for potential cross-contamination. Chemical sanitizers, meanwhile, pose their own set of challenges, such as the risk of chemical residues on food surfaces.

Introducing the AirROS Advantage

Comprehensive Air and Surface Sanitation

With its High Voltage Controlled Pulse (HVCP) technology, the AirROS system goes beyond mere filtration. It generates Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), effectively destroying a broad range of airborne and surface-bound pathogens.

Continuous Protection

AirROS offers 24/7 air and surface sanitation, providing continuous protection against microbial threats. This always-on feature sets it apart from other systems that offer only periodic sanitation.

Built for Longevity

In an industry where durability is crucial, the AirROS system stands out. While it may require maintenance, its robust design ensures that it will be a long-term asset to your facility, providing reliable service for years.

Meeting and Exceeding Regulatory Standards

AirROS not only aids in compliance with FSMA and HACCP but also sets the stage for meeting future, potentially more stringent regulations.

The food processing industry is constantly evolving, raising the bar for safety and quality. As part of this, air cleaning is increasingly being recognized as not just a ‘nice-to-have’ but a ‘must-have.’ Systems like AirROS provide a multi-faceted approach to air and surface sanitation, making them an invaluable asset for any forward-thinking food processing facility.

Are you ready to elevate your food safety measures and ensure long-lasting compliance? Contact us today to learn how AirROS can redefine air and surface sanitation in your food processing facility.