New vegan line needed to be super eco-friendly whilst compliant with the highest levels of international and national, regulatory, and non-regulatory food safety standards.
Where do you start when designing a green compressed air system?
The location of the installation must be a consideration, this is because the largest component of a compressed air system is the compressor. It's also the most expensive and carries the overhead of spares and replacement parts. So, to be truly green, the compressor should be manufactured in the most environmentally way, plus travel the least amount of miles before installation. Avelair is a British designer, manufacturer and service provider of highly energy efficient oil free air and gas compressors. It's also less than 10 miles away from the food producers processing facility.
Ensuring the carbon footprint of every product produced is minimised
Cambs Compressors have a long history of working in the food and beverages sector, and fully understand the safety responsibilities and compliance measures impacting compressed air in these environments. Cambs also have excellent credentials in designing bespoke solutions and compressed air systems which are ultra-low in their respective energy consumption.
It's not just about making a saving, there’s more at stake
Achieving compliance with food standards and implementing green energy measures not only ensures the safety and quality of food products but also enhances a food producer's reputation, competitiveness, and long-term viability. Balancing these factors contributes to a responsible and successful food production business.
What are the challenges of designing, installing, and commissioning a compressed air system in the food and beverages sector?
It is important for a food producer using compressed air to be compliant with food standards and implement green energy measures in their manufacturing processes for several compelling reasons:
Food Safety and Quality: Compliance with food safety and quality standards is paramount in the food industry. Contaminants or impurities from compressed air can potentially affect the safety and integrity of food products. Meeting food standards ensures that the air used in food processing does not introduce any hazards, thereby safeguarding consumer health.
Regulatory Requirements: Regulatory agencies set specific guidelines for food production facilities. Non-compliance can result in legal consequences, including fines, recalls, or even shutdowns, which can severely damage a company's reputation and financial stability.
- Food Safety Legislation (EU Regulation 178/2002): This regulation establishes the general principles and requirements of food law, including the need for food to be safe and suitable for consumption. Compressed air systems must be designed, operated, and maintained in a way that prevents contamination or potential hazards.
- Regulation (EC) No 852/2004 on Food Hygiene: This regulation outlines hygiene rules for food businesses in the EU. It covers the general principles of food hygiene, including the need to prevent contamination from sources such as compressed air. The regulation also requires food businesses to establish and implement food safety management systems based on Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) principles.
- Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004 on Materials and Articles Intended to Come into Contact with Food: Compressed air systems that come into contact with food or food packaging materials must comply with this regulation, which sets specific requirements for materials and articles intended for food contact. Materials used in compressed air systems must not transfer substances to food that could endanger human health or alter the composition of the food.
- Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 on Plastic Materials and Articles Intended to Come into Contact with Food: If plastic components are part of the compressed air system and come into contact with food, they must meet the requirements of this regulation. It establishes specific rules for plastic materials intended for food contact.
- British Compressed Air Society (BCAS) Guidelines: Although not a regulatory requirement, BCAS provides guidelines and best practices for the use of compressed air systems in the food and beverage industry. These guidelines offer recommendations on equipment design, maintenance, and filtration to ensure the safety of compressed air used in food production.
- Industry-Specific Standards: Depending on the specific food products being produced, there may be additional industry-specific standards and guidelines that apply. These standards could cover aspects such as air quality, filtration, and contamination prevention.
Consumer Trust: Consumers have become increasingly conscious about the quality and safety of the food they consume. Food producers that adhere to food standards and regulations demonstrate their commitment to transparency, safety, and consumer trust.
Risk Mitigation: By implementing green energy measures and minimising environmental impacts, food producers can mitigate risks associated with resource scarcity, climate change, and rising energy costs. This resilience is crucial for maintaining business continuity and minimizing disruptions in the supply chain.
Sustainability and Reputation: Embracing green energy measures aligns with sustainability goals and reflects a commitment to reducing the carbon footprint. As consumers and investors place more emphasis on sustainability, adopting environmentally friendly practices can enhance a company's reputation and competitiveness.
Cost Savings: Green energy initiatives often lead to reduced energy consumption, resulting in cost savings for the company. Energy-efficient equipment and practices can help food producers optimise their operations and improve their bottom line.
Market Differentiation: Companies that implement green energy measures can stand out in a competitive market. Consumers are increasingly favouring environmentally responsible brands, and highlighting sustainable practices can be a unique selling point.
Long-Term Viability: Addressing environmental concerns is essential for the long-term viability of any business. Companies that embrace green practices are better positioned to adapt to changing regulations, consumer preferences, and market dynamics.
Employee Morale: Employees often take pride in working for companies that prioritise sustainability and ethical practices. Implementing green energy measures can enhance employee morale and engagement, contributing to a positive workplace culture.
Innovation and Collaboration: Pursuing green energy initiatives encourages innovation and collaboration among employees, suppliers, and stakeholders. Finding innovative solutions to reduce energy consumption and waste can lead to improvements in overall operations.
It's important to note that compliance with these regulations involves a combination of factors, including proper system design, maintenance, and documentation of procedures. Food producers should work closely with regulatory authorities, quality control personnel, and compliance experts to ensure that their compressed air systems meet all relevant requirements.