The R638 Food Regulations were introduced in South Africa in 2018 to help ensure that all food products are safe for human consumption. The regulations apply to all food establishments, including restaurants and hotels, and cover a range of topics including hygiene, food handling, and food preparation. In this blog, we will discuss the key aspects of the R638 Food Regulations and how Food Consulting Services’ hygiene audits can help establishments comply with these regulations.
Hygiene and Sanitation
One of the main focuses of the R638 Food Regulations is on hygiene and sanitation practices in food establishments. This includes:
- Regular cleaning and sanitizing of all surfaces, equipment, and utensils that come into contact with food.
- Ensuring that all staff members have been trained in proper hygiene practices, including hand washing and safe food handling.
- Regular monitoring and testing of surfaces and equipment to ensure that they are free from harmful bacteria and other contaminants.
Food Consulting Services’ hygiene audits can help establishments ensure that they are meeting these requirements by providing a thorough assessment of hygiene practices and identifying areas for improvement. Our team of experts can provide training and education to staff members, as well as recommendations for improving cleaning and sanitizing procedures.
Food Handling
The R638 Food Regulations also cover safe food handling practices, including:
- Ensuring that all food products are stored at the proper temperature to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
- Properly separating raw and cooked foods to prevent cross-contamination.
- Using safe food handling practices when preparing and serving food, including wearing gloves and hairnets when appropriate.
Food Consulting Services’ hygiene audits can help establishments ensure that they are following safe food handling practices by providing a thorough assessment of food preparation and handling practices. Our team of experts can provide training and education to staff members, as well as recommendations for improving food handling procedures.
Food Preparation
The R638 Food Regulations also cover food preparation practices, including:
- Ensuring that all food products are cooked to the appropriate temperature to kill any harmful bacteria.
- Properly thawing frozen foods to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
- Using safe food preparation techniques, such as using separate cutting boards and utensils for different types of food.
Food Consulting Services’ hygiene audits can help establishments ensure that they are following proper food preparation practices by providing a thorough assessment of food preparation procedures. Our team of experts can provide training and education to staff members, as well as recommendations for improving food preparation techniques.
Documentation and Record Keeping
Finally, the R638 Food Regulations require that food establishments keep thorough documentation and records of all food handling, preparation, and sanitation practices. This includes:
- Keeping records of all food products received, including their source and date of receipt.
- Keeping records of all cleaning and sanitizing procedures, including the type of cleaning agent used and the concentration of the solution.
- Keeping records of all staff members who have received training in proper hygiene and food handling practices.
Food Consulting Services’ hygiene audits can help establishments ensure that they are keeping thorough documentation and records by reviewing current practices and providing recommendations for improving documentation and record keeping procedures.
In conclusion, the R638 Food Regulations are an important aspect of ensuring that all food products in South Africa are safe for human consumption. Food Consulting Services’ hygiene audits can help food establishments comply with these regulations by providing a thorough assessment of current practices and identifying areas for improvement. Our team of experts can provide training and education to staff members, as well as recommendations for improving hygiene, food handling, and food preparation practices. By partnering with Food Consulting Services, food establishments can ensure that they are meeting regulatory requirements and maintaining the highest standards of food safety.
You can get your copy of the new regulation R638 of 2018.
