Packaging and Compressed Air
Packaging and compressed air are not strangers. The food, pharmaceutical and medical device industries are focusing more attention to the utilities used in the manufacturing process. Although long overlooked, compressed air quality is making its way under the microscope.
Identify Compressed Air & Gas Sources
Food Packagers should identify compressed air used directly and/or indirectly on or in the product. Packaging generally falls under the indirect contact category. Compressed air can be used to make the actual package as in blow molding, clean a surface that the product is placed on prior to packaging, or clean the package prior to the final product going into the package. These are just a few examples of how compressed air can be used in the packaging process. The use of compressed air covers the gamut of packaging materials from glass, plastic, metal, Styrofoam™, paper products and more!
Monitor Compressed Air & Gases
Since July of 2012, manufacturers seeking SQF certification are required to monitor the compressed air they use. Many food manufacturers are requiring proof of an air quality monitoring program from its vendors, suppliers, and packagers. Safe Quality Food (SQF) is the first certification scheme under the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) that has officially started mandating the testing of compressed air used in the food manufacturing process in the United States.
