Increase food safety with colour coding

The food industry is subject to strict regulations to guarantee food safety. A colour coding system can play a crucial role in meeting these standards and preventing cross-contamination. Find out how this simple approach can improve the safety of your food products while helping you comply with GFSI (Global Food Safety Initiative) standards.

Why is colour coding essential in the food industry?

It is essential to carefully separate the different stages of the process to avoid cross-contamination in food manufacturing and processing facilities. For example, in meat processing plants, colour coding is commonly used to distinguish raw from cooked meat, or raw and semi-processed foods from the finished product.

GFSI-recognised food standards such as BRC, FSSC22000, IFS and SQF require specific measures to prevent contact and cross-contamination. Colour coding is an ideal solution for meeting these requirements. The BRC standard in particular requires cleaning tools to be clearly identified according to their intended use, often using a colour coding system.

The main advantages of colour coding

The use of colour coding in the food industry is of paramount importance, not only for the smooth running of operations, but also for food safety. It offers a visual and systematic approach that improves your manufacturing and preparation processes:

Reduced risk of product contamination

Colour coding clearly separates the different stages, sections and areas of food production, reducing the risk of contamination by micro-organisms, allergens or foreign bodies.

Reduced costs associated with product recalls

By minimising the risk of cross-contamination in finished products, you considerably reduce the risk of costly product recalls, as well as the associated expenses.

Faster processes

Colour coding makes it easier to locate and store tools, speeding up production processes. This approach is also in line with the HACCP principles of monitoring and verification.

Clarity and understanding

Colour coding is universally understood, regardless of language skills. It eliminates misunderstandings and simplifies procedures for all members of staff.

Improved safety

By encouraging a culture where employees take ownership of their tools and work areas through colour coding, you reinforce food safety by promoting a proactive attitude towards risk prevention.

Longer tool life

Your cleaning equipment is specifically selected for each stage of preparation. By using the right equipment, easily recognisable thanks to colour coding, you can extend tool life and reduce the costs associated with frequent tool replacement.

Reduced tool and equipment costs

By minimising the amount of tools and equipment used in food production, you can make significant savings in the long term.

Creating a tidy workspace

A well-organised, food safety-focused working environment leaves a positive impression on customers, authorities, auditors and visitors, enhancing your reputation and credibility in the industry.

How to set up a colour coding system

Do you think you need to use colour codes in your workplace, but don’t know how to go about it? Here are a few tips to get you started:

Contrast and visibility: Use high-contrast colours to allow easy detection of plastic or fibre residues in food, making sure that the colours are recognisable even for colour-blind people.
Simple and logical: Avoid complicated colour combinations. Limit the number of colours to avoid confusion and make sure your colour choices are logical and intuitive.
Display and communication: Use clear signage to accompany your colour coding system. Use images or text in several languages if necessary.
Communication and training: Communicate your plan to all staff, meet with team leaders to explain the system and present the programme to all employees.
Colour selection : Choose colours that meet all your cleaning and food handling needs. Use standard colours in large areas and reserve other colours for high-risk areas.
Tool storage: Make sure that tools are stored in the area where they are used, using the same colour code. Use tool panels or wall brackets for easy storage.

Pollet can help you set up your colour coding system

By adopting a colour coding system for cleaning equipment in the food industry, you can improve food safety, reduce costs and demonstrate your commitment to quality.

If you’d like to find out more about setting up such a system in your business, or if you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our professional cleaning experts.

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