Handling of raw materials in the production process

At this point, raw materials and ingredients must be clearly identified and the risk of cross-contamination reduced. Therefore, it is necessary to follow a series of guidelines:

• At the moment of reception, it is necessary to verify that the raw materials are correctly packaged or separated from each other and that they are clearly labeled.

• Before unloading begins, the entire raw material delivery must be verified.

• Special attention should be paid at the time of sample collection during the delivery of allergenic raw materials.

• Bulk raw material receiving points should be blocked when not in use.

Clear identification and isolation of each allergenic material from the materials are the basic principles to be followed to reduce the risk of contamination.

Aspects to be applied for the proper storage of allergenic raw materials:

• Before receiving allergenic goods, it should be ensured and verified if they are properly packaged and labeled to avoid accidental use and cross-contamination.

• Allergenic ingredients should be in easily visible areas, e.g. color coding on boxes and lines on the floor can be used to separate storage areas.

• Allergenic raw materials should be stored in properly labeled containers until they are to be used.

• These allergenic materials, when removed from their original containers, should be stored in closed and properly identified containers, and the original containers should be properly sanitized, following established procedures, so that they can be used for the storage of other raw materials.

• It is necessary to pay special attention to those ingredients that can generate powders, as this increases the risk of cross-contamination during handling.

• Determine the separation and handling of allergens at all stages of the production chain (including collection and transfer).

• In cases where it is not possible to store allergenic raw materials separately from other raw materials, all necessary measures should be taken to prevent cross-contamination, such as using the lower part of the shelves.

• Ensure that information on the origin of all raw materials is easily accessible and available.

For semi-finished products, these storage guidelines also apply.