In Australia, food packaging standards are very strict. Manufacturers must comply with the Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) Food Standards Code in order to ensure that food is safe. Here is an overview of the food packaging standard in Australia and why it is important to have high standards for food packaging.
Why Package Quality Is Important
Package quality not only affects the shelf-life of the product, it is essential that high quality packaging is used for all foods in order to prevent recalls and foodborne illnesses. For certain products, taste might also be affected by packaging materials. In order, to remain in compliance with the Food Standards Code and meet the demands of consumers, food suppliers must ensure that food packaging is safe, even for the foods that are stored.
Avoiding Contamination during Transport or Display
Packaging is primarily designed to keep foreign contaminants out during the transport or display of the food before it is eaten. While food is on display, it could become contaminated even when there is no direct hand contact. Germs may spread through the air or try some distance. In addition, self-service options for customers of ready-to-eat foods can provide opportunities for contamination. As a result, packaging must also stand up to potential wear during transport and display.
Is Your Food Packaging Safe?
Food packaging is generally considered to be safe if it is known to be safe for use with food, if the appropriate foods are safely used with the packaging, the temperature of the packaging for washing, cooking and refrigeration and whether the packaging is reusable. Checks will be performed on a regular basis by your local Environmental Health Officer (EHO). Therefore, it is important that you make sure that your packaging is up to standards by testing package integrity with reliable food packaging leak testing equipment, such as SealTick TSE Series.
