Food Industry Metal Coatings To Consider For Improved Safety

Working in the food industry means ensuring the quality of the food you produce for the safety of the public. The CDC recognizes over 250 foodborne illnesses that affect men, women, and children each year. Combine that with the fact that approximately 48 million U.S. residents get sick each year because of contaminated food. You can reduce foodborne illnesses and improve safety by using the proper metal coatings in your industry.

Components in Need of Metal Coatings

The food industry deals with several components that require metal coatings that will reduce foodborne illnesses. Identifying components that require metal coatings can help you ensure your business continues to produce safe, healthy food to the public. Components that commonly require metal coatings include:

• Knives
• Mixing bowls
• Molds
• Screws and extruders (on food production machines)
• Meat grinder shafts
• Rollers

Types of Metal Coatings to Consider

Identifying which components likely need metal coatings in just half the problem. Figuring out which metal coatings to use is the other half. There are a variety of metal coatings to choose. It is best to understand the characteristics and benefits of each.

Teflon

Teflon is a name you have likely heard many times since it is often used to coat cooking pans. When you think of Teflon, you may think of its stick-resistant abilities. Teflon, or Polytetrafluoroethylene works great for high-temperature food processes, making it an ideal coating for improved safety. Keep in mind, however, that Teflon can produce toxic chemicals if temperatures exceed 570 degrees.

Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene

If you speak to a professional about available coatings, he or she may mention fluorinated ethylene propylene, or FEP. FEP is often a common recommendation because it can repel water in both a liquid and gas form. It also resists nearly every chemical, which improves the safety of food production. The last thing you want, or need is to cross-contaminate foods with potentially harmful chemicals.

Antimicrobial Finishes

Antimicrobial finishes are another important consideration since you want to ensure that no bacteria can enter the food you produce. Some antimicrobial finishes kill bacteria whereas others stop the bacteria from sticking to the surface. A professional can help you choose the right finish for your components.

Speak to a metal finishing service to determine which metal coatings will work best for your food production components. Explain that you are looking for the best ways to improve safety and ensure the reduction of foodborne illnesses for the best results.

Share