ASKAFOODTECH Champions Food Safety: Taking a Bite Out of Risk During Australian Food Safety Week
At ASKAFOODTECH, we're passionate about ensuring food safety and quality throughout the entire food chain.
That's why we wholeheartedly support Australian Food Safety Week, a national initiative raising awareness about this vital issue.
Australian Food Safety Week: A Focus on Food Labels
Australian Food Safety Week is an annual initiative of the Australian Food Safety Information Council and is aimed at raising awareness about the importance of food safety. This year's theme, "Look before you cook – read the food labels," highlights the crucial role that food labels play in ensuring safe food preparation and consumption.
By paying close attention to food labels, consumers can make informed decisions and reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
How ASKAFOODTECH Champions Food Safety
Our commitment to food safety extends beyond awareness campaigns. We offer a comprehensive suite of services designed to empower businesses in the Australian food industry to maintain the highest standards:
- HACCP Consulting: We guide businesses in developing and implementing robust Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) plans. HACCP is a systematic approach that identifies potential hazards and establishes preventive controls to mitigate foodborne illness risks.
- Food Safety Training: Our in-depth training programs equip food handlers with the knowledge and skills to understand and apply critical food safety principles. We cover everything from basic hygiene practices to advanced allergen management, ensuring food safety is prioritized at every stage of preparation and handling.
- Regulatory Compliance: Staying up-to-date with the latest food safety regulations can be challenging. ASKAFOODTECH stays ahead of the curve, assisting businesses in adhering to these standards and avoiding costly penalties while protecting consumers.
- Auditing and Inspections: Our experienced auditor conducts thorough inspections to identify and address potential food safety concerns. We provide comprehensive reports with actionable recommendations to ensure businesses operate at the highest level of food safety.
Join the Food Safety Movement!
Everyone plays a role in ensuring food safety. During Australian Food Safety Week and beyond, you can make a difference! Here are some simple tips to follow at home:
- Read Food Labels Carefully: Look for "use by" and "best before" dates, understand storage instructions, and follow cooking directions to ensure safe consumption.
- Cleanliness is Key: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food. Regularly sanitize surfaces and utensils used for food preparation.
- Separate to Prevent Contamination: Keep raw and cooked foods apart on separate chopping boards and plates to minimize the risk of cross-contamination.
- Cook Thoroughly: Use a food thermometer to ensure food reaches the safe internal temperature recommended for specific types of food.
Source- www.foodstandards.gov.au, www.healthdirect.gov.au and www.foodsafety.asn.au/topic/australian-food-safety-week-2024
By working together, we can build a culture of food safety awareness and significantly reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Let's make every bite a safe one!
In summary.
By prioritising food safety, we can protect public health and ensure that every meal is a safe and enjoyable experience. Let's work together to create a food-safe future.
Remember, food safety is everyone's responsibility. By following simple guidelines and seeking expert advice, we can significantly reduce the risk of foodborne illness and build a healthier community.
About the Author:
Stewart Eddie (Bapp Sc Food Science & Technology) is Director and Principal Food Tech at ASKAFOODTECH PTY LTD; a food technology consulting company that inspires, educates, and serves food producers with an ambition to grow and manage risk. Living with a severe food allergy and being a food technologist, Stewart is uniquely placed to help your food manufacturing business with your allergen management planning. If you would like more information on the services that ASKAFOODTECH PTY LTD can provide, please
contact us.
