Continuing our series on navigating ink-related food safety standards
In this blog, we will explore the first standard, hazard analysis and risk management. Where applicable, we will provide hyperlinks to web pages, and suggest further reading on our InkConnection blogsite.
Hazard-related requirements in the three food safety management schemes
The criteria concerning hazard analysis and risk management can be found in:
- Section 2.2 of the BRC Global Standard (BRCGS) for Packaging Materials;
- Sections 1.11 and 1.12 of FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification);
- Section 2.4 of Safe Quality Food (SQF).
Even though each standard uses different wording, they all have similar requirements.
How to establish a safety plan
Initially, the company needs to establish a safety plan and initiate the preliminary stages of hazard analysis. This involves:
- Forming a multidisciplinary team.
- Developing a food safety plan, which should be implemented and sustained to ensure product safety within the certification’s scope. The team must consider relevant codes of practice or recognized guidelines. FSSC 22000 and SQF require adherence to HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) principles.
- Detailing the products, including their composition (e.g. raw materials, inks, varnishes, coatings, and other printing chemicals), and specifying the origin of raw materials, including the use of recycled materials.
- Outlining all production steps through a process flow diagram. This diagram must delineate each process step, from raw material receipt, through manufacturing and storage, to customer dispatch. It should also encompass the receipt and preparation of raw materials such as additives, inks, and adhesives, as well as the utilization of rework materials.
Hazard analysis and control measures
The team must identify and document all potential food safety hazards at each process step, including those related to raw materials (such as inks). These risks might involve microbiological threats, chemical contamination, and the possibility of unintended substance migration from packaging materials to food or other hygiene-sensitive products. The team must implement control measures to mitigate these risks to acceptable levels.
Low migration inks and ink dispensing
Ink suppliers have formulated low migration inks to minimize the transfer of ink components from the printed surface to the contents of the package.
Pumping and dispensing low migration inks can be challenging due to their specific formulation characteristics, designed to minimize the migration of potentially harmful substances. The materials used in pumps and dispensing equipment need to be compatible with the specific chemical composition of these inks. Some components of these inks may be more aggressive or reactive, requiring more durable or chemically resistant materials in the dispensing and pumping system.
‘Valves are specially designed for problem-free dispensing of low migration inks’
GSE’s solutions to comply with hazard-related requirements
GSE offers a range of solutions to meet hazard-related requirements. These include software, equipment and services, designed to align with safety standards mentioned earlier.
Our software aids in professionalizing the management of product composition and process flows. The core features of our GSE Ink manager software include a comprehensive database, detailing the composition of each unique colour blend used in printing, along with expiry dates for the inks. Additionally, we provide optional software solutions for the procurement and receipt of raw materials, as well as for reworking press-return inks.
To enhance personnel and environmental protection in printing facilities, our optional GSE Hazard symbol printing software automatically generates internationally recognized hazard warning labels for transporting and storing colour blends.
Our equipment meets stringent CE and ATEX safety standards. Specifically for dispensing low migration UV-curable inks, we have selected durable pumps and developed dedicated dispensing valves.
As part of our service contracts, we conduct service visits and provide risk assessments and method statements to ensure safe service execution.
Further reading on the InkConnection blogsite
- Hazard symbol printing enhances safety with spot colour inks
- What solvent ink users need to know about safety compliance, ATEX, and IECEx
- How are ink dispensers designed to safely handle solvent inks in package printing?
If you require advice on complying with GFSI requirements, feel free to reach out to us. For any other inquiries regarding ink logistics, please contact us at info@gsedispensing.com.
