Challenge:
A food processing company faced potential contamination risk due to workers on the production floor unknowingly contaminating food samples with Coagulase-positive Staphylococcus (CPS). The contamination risk was heightened by health issues such as eye discharge, nasal discharge, ear infections, and skin infections, which could spread harmful bacteria to the products during processing.
AML’s Solution:
- Conducted microbiological testing for Coagulase-positive Staphylococcus in raw and processed food samples, as well as on surfaces in key areas of the production facility.
- Identified potential contamination risks linked to workers’ health issues and personal hygiene practices.
- Advised on strict employee health and hygiene protocols, including mandatory health checks, immediate reporting of symptoms like eye or nasal discharge, and restrictions on working with food during illness.
- Recommended implementing personal protective equipment (PPE) standards, including face masks, gloves, and proper uniforms to reduce the risk of contamination.
- Worked with the company to train staff on proper hand hygiene, illness reporting, and the importance of regular health checks.
Outcome:
- Early identification of contamination risk prevented any products from being affected by Coagulase-positive Staphylococcus.
- The company avoided the possibility of a widespread foodborne illness outbreak, preserving its brand reputation and consumer safety.
- Enhanced worker health policies and hygiene practices significantly reduced the risk of future contamination.
- The company’s commitment to ensuring safe working conditions and product integrity strengthened its standing with health regulators and customers.
Our Client Review
"AML's thorough testing and proactive recommendations were essential in preventing contamination from worker health issues. Their guidance on improving hygiene protocols and implementing PPE standards helped us avoid a potential foodborne illness outbreak. Thanks to AML, we’ve strengthened our health policies and ensured safer working conditions, which has reinforced our reputation with both regulators and customers."
Leading Australian Food Processing Company