Is your Commercial Kitchen ready for the New Law Changes to Thermometers
The Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) system, which is used to ensure food safety, does not have a specific rule governing the approval of thermometers per se. However, proper use and calibration of thermometers are critical components of maintaining food safety standards under HACCP principles.
Here’s a general guide to what would be important when it comes to HACCP-approved thermometers:
1. Accuracy and Calibration
- Calibration: Thermometers must be calibrated regularly to ensure they provide accurate readings. Calibration should be performed using known standards, such as ice water or boiling water, and should be documented.
- Accuracy: Thermometers should be accurate to within ±0.5°C, which is crucial for ensuring food is cooked to safe temperatures and stored correctly.
2. Type of Thermometer
- Digital Thermometers: These are commonly used due to their quick and accurate readings. They should have a clear display and be easy to read.
- Infrared Thermometers: Useful for non-contact temperature measurements. They are ideal for surface temperatures but not recommended for internal temperatures.
- Bimetallic Stemmed Thermometers: These have a metal probe that measures the internal temperature of food. They should have a dial that is easy to read.
3. Proper Usage
- Insertion Depth: When measuring the temperature of food, the thermometer should be inserted into the center of the food item to get an accurate reading.
- Cleaning: Thermometers should be cleaned and sanitized between uses to prevent cross-contamination.
4. Documentation
- Records: Keep records of calibration checks and any adjustments made. Documentation is essential for HACCP compliance and traceability.
Certification and Compliance
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that your thermometers meet Australian standards for food safety. In Australia, equipment and procedures must comply with the Food Standards Code (specifically, Standard 3.2.2 – Food Safety Practices and General Requirements).
Here at Hospitality connect we have a Large range of Industry Thermometer from your hand held unit to the data reader. Call the team today for our Guidenace