A steaming hot cup of ginger tea and rusk to dunk in it is a great way to start the day or a relaxing way to unwind in the evening. However, a recent viral video where workers in a rusk-making unit were seen licking and stepping on the rusks before packing them has got us rethinking our routine.

The lack of food safety measures being implemented in factories and other food units can prove to be detrimental to human health. Food safety refers to the assurance that food is fit for human consumption when used as intended. The adoption of Good Manufacturing Practices, Good Hygienic Practices, Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point, ISO and other similar practices as may be stipulated by regulation, for the food company, is referred to as a Food Safety Management System.

Role of Food Packaging in Food Safety

Consumers, the media, regulators and food businesses often focus on the product itself rather than packaging safety. However, packaging plays an essential role in the overall food safety process. As food distribution networks become increasingly global, manufacturers must pay greater attention to packaging to ensure that products remain safe and secure throughout the supply chain. Manufacturers should consider several factors to prevent packaging-related safety issues.

First, examine the packaging and production process.

Manufacturers should identify and evaluate the factors that could affect the packaging process. They must also ensure that their manufacturing practices comply with all applicable safety and quality requirements. Taking these steps can strengthen safeguards against incidents and reduce packaging-related risks.

Second, assess the risk of human error.

Businesses can take several steps to minimise human error during food packaging. They should ensure that everyone who handles food or food packaging understands personal hygiene, equipment and utensil safety, surface sanitation and the consequences of poor practices. Businesses should provide training that reflects their workplace culture, employees’ roles and the specific risks associated with food preparation and packaging.

Finally, assess the supply chain.

Manufacturers should verify that the raw materials and other materials used in their products meet the required safety and quality standards. They can assess potential food safety risks by evaluating packaging suppliers based on their products, processes and customer requirements.

Risk assessments also help manufacturers determine the level of due diligence required from each supplier and identify early warning signs that could create food safety risks during packaging.

Food Packaging Standards with Respect to Food Handlers

Food handlers play a crucial role in preventing food-borne illnesses. They should make good personal hygiene practices a routine part of every food-handling activity.

• Food handlers must wear appropriate protective clothing, including head coverings, face masks, gloves and footwear.

• They must wash their hands before starting any food-handling activity and after touching raw food, contaminated substances, utensils, equipment or surfaces that could contaminate food. They must also wash their hands after using the restroom.

• They must wash their hands with antibacterial liquid soap and clean, potable water, disinfect them and dry them with a disposable paper towel.

• Food handlers should keep their nails and hair trimmed.

• They must not smoke, spit, chew, sneeze or cough over food in preparation or serving areas.

• To prevent cross-contamination, food handlers should avoid touching soiled cash notes or cards while handling food.

• Food handlers should not wear street shoes inside food-processing areas.

• They must avoid touching their noses, running their fingers through their hair, rubbing their eyes, ears or mouth, scratching their beards or touching other parts of their bodies while handling food. If such contact occurs, they must wash their hands thoroughly before returning to work.

Food businesses must implement these guidelines effectively and ensure that employees follow them consistently. Responsible practices and awareness among food business owners and handlers can help protect consumers and ensure that even simple pleasures, such as a hot cup of tea and a rusk, remain safe and hygienic.