Lately, pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes and STEC have triggered main outbreaks within the European Union that had been associated to the consumption of recent and frozen fruit, greens and herbs. The standard of water and its industrial use is an growing international concern, not solely as a result of poor water high quality can introduce dangerous microorganisms into meals merchandise but in addition as a result of local weather change and the anticipated discount in water availability.
EFSA’s consultants analysed the microbiological and physico-chemical high quality of water used to course of fruit, greens and herbs in industrial settings. Additionally they ready a set of course of water administration plans and an internet device, which can assist trade enhance their water administration techniques.
“Match-for-purpose” processing water
Of their evaluation, EFSA’s consultants adopted the idea of “fit-for-purpose water”, developed by the FAO and the WHO. This strategy calls for various points to be thought-about when deciding on the most effective water administration plan, such because the evaluation of the water supply and potential hazards associated to it, disinfection choices, and the top use of the meals product (for instance if eaten uncooked).
The suggestions are offered in three scientific opinions – one on fresh-whole fruit, vegetables and herbs, one other on fresh-cut products, and the third on frozen products.
At the moment’s publications comply with previous work by EFSA in 2023 during which it outlined the theoretical foundation for a course of water administration plan utilizing insights from earlier research, outbreak information, and replies from trade to a questionnaire.
A brand new app – WaterManage4You
EFSA additionally developed WaterManage4You, a free on-line device that can assist predict the switch and accumulation of micro organism in course of water in industrial eventualities. The app is very related for meals enterprise operators, scientists and authorities working on this discipline.
The device works with preset or customised information, utilizing a singular mathematical mannequin, described in a single scientific opinion, to simulate numerous eventualities and predict the affect of various methods for water disinfection and replenishment. To do that, the app considers parameters corresponding to quantity and replenishment of water, chlorine disinfectant focus, complete quantity of the product being washed, and complete micro organism counts.
