Author
Northcutt, Julie |
Submitted to: National Egg Quality School Proceedings
Publication Type: Proceedings Publication Acceptance Date: 5/13/2004 Publication Date: 5/20/2004 Citation: Northcutt, J.K. 2004. Sanitation of commercial shell egg processing establishments. National Egg Quality School Proceedings. Atlanta, GA. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: Federal regulations are currently being written for the implementation of a HACCP-based (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point) food safety program for the commercial shell egg industry. When implementation is approved, the initial focus will be on the development of an effective sanitation program. An effective sanitation program includes written Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOPs) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs). SSOPs and GMPs outline the procedures necessary to create and maintain a hygienic and healthful food processing and handling environment. SSOPs are a series of detailed instructions on how to clean and sanitize the processing facility and associated equipment, who is responsible for sanitation, how often the procedures will be performed and what is to be cleaned and sanitized. SSOPs require supporting documentation, such as a written procedure and records denoting completion of the task. GMPs are more general in nature and cover the employee attire/conduct, equipment/utensils, building/facilities, and processing environment. GMPs do not require any supporting documentation and usually reflect company policy. Taken together, SSOPs and GMPs reduce the types and numbers of bacteria in and on products. In a previous study, it was demonstrated that bacterial levels on product contact and non-contact surfaces in commercial egg processing facilities contained a comparable level of bacteria before and after plant sanitation. This proceedings and the accompanying presentation will outline the proper method for developing an effective sanitation program, as well as the proper procedure for updating and evaluating a sanitation program. |