This website publishes administrative rules on their effective dates, as designated by the adopting state agencies, colleges, and
universities.
| Rule |
Rule 901:3-3-01 | Definitions, standards, labeling and tolerances for bread and other bakery products.
Effective:
April 28, 2003
(A) Food Processing establishments processing thermally processed low-acid foods packaged in hermetically sealed containers shall comply with Chapter 901:3-3 of the Administrative Code and Chapter 901:3-1 of the Administrative Code (B) Definitions. As used in Chapter 901:3-3 of the Administrative Code: (1) "Aseptic processing and packaging" means the filling of a commercially sterilized cooled product into presterilized containers, followed by aseptic hermetical sealing, with a presterilized closure, in an atmosphere free of microorganisms. (2) "Bleeders" means openings used to remove air that enters with steam from retorts and steam chambers and to promote circulation of steam in such retorts and steam chambers. Bleeders may serve as a means of removing condensate. (3) "Come-up-time" means the time which elapses between the introduction of steam into the closed retort and the time when the retort reaches the required processing temperature. (4) "Commercial sterility of thermally processed food" means the condition achieved: (a) By the application of heat which renders the food free of: (i) Microorganisms capable of reproducing in the food under normal nonrefrigerated conditions of storage and distribution; and (ii) Viable microorganisms, including spores, of public health significance; or (b) By the control of water activity and the application of heat, which renders the food free of microorganisms capable of reproducing in the food under normal nonrefrigerated conditions of storage and distribution. (5) "Commercial sterility of equipment and containers used for aseptic processing and packaging of food" means the condition achieved by application of heat, chemical sterilants, or other appropriate treatment that renders the equipment and containers free of viable microorganisms having public health significance, as well as microorganisms of nonhealth significance, capable of reproducing in the food under normal nonrefrigerated conditions of storage and distribution. (6) "Critical factor" means any property, characteristic, condition, aspect, or other parameter, variation of which may affect the scheduled process and the attainment of commercial sterility. (7) "Flame sterilizer" means an apparatus in which hermetically sealed containers are agitated at atmospheric pressure, by either continuous, discontinuous, or reciprocating movement, with impinging gas flames to achieve sterilization temperatures. A holding period in a heated section may follow the initial heating period. (8) "Headspace-gross" means the vertical distance between the level of the product, generally the liquid surface, in an upright rigid container and the top edge of the container which is the top of the double seam of a can or the top edge of a glass jar. (9) "Headspace-net of a container" means the vertical distance between the level of the product, generally the liquid surface, in the upright rigid container and the inside surface of the lid. (10) "Hermetically sealed container" means a container that is designed and intended to be secure against the entry of microorganisms and thereby to maintain the commercial sterility of its contents after processing. (11) "Incubation" means the holding of a sample at a specified temperature for a specified period of time for the purpose of permitting or stimulating the growth of microorganisms. (12) "Initial temperature" means the average temperature of the contents of the coldest container to be processed at the time the thermal processing cycle begins, as determined after thorough stirring or shaking of the filled and sealed container. (13) "Lot" means the food product produced during a period of time indicated by a specific code. (14) "Low-acid foods" means any foods, other than alcoholic beverages, with a finished equilibrium pH greater than 4.6 and a water activity (a>w) greater than 0.85. Tomatoes and tomato products having a finished equilibrium pH less than 4.7 are not classed as low-acid foods. (15) "Minimum thermal process" means the application of heat to food, either before or after sealing in a hermetically sealed container, for a period of time and at a temperature scientifically determined to be adequate to ensure destruction of microorganisms of public health significance. (16) "Operating process" means the process selected by the processor that equals or exceeds the minimum requirements set forth in the scheduled process. (17) "Processor" includes any person engaged in commercial, custom or institutional processing of food, including pet food. A processor includes any person engaged in the production of foods that are to be used in market or consumer tests are also included. (18) "Retort" means any closed vessel or other equipment used for the thermal processing of foods. (19) "Scheduled process" means the process selected by the processor as adequate under the conditions of manufacture for a given product to achieve commercial sterility. This process shall be at least equivalent to the process established by a processing authority to achieve commercial sterility. (20) "Vacuum-packed products" means those products that are sealed in a container under the vacuum specified in the scheduled process, the maintenance of which vacuum is critical to the adequacy of the scheduled process. (21) "Vents" means openings through the retort shell, controlled by gate, plug cock, or other adequate valves used for the elimination of air during the venting period. (22) "A>w" means water activity which is a measure of the free moisture in a product and is the quotient of the water vapor pressure of the substance divided by the vapor pressure of pure water at the same temperature. (23) "pH" is the symbol for the negative logarithm of the hydrogen ion concentration which is a measure of the degree of acidity or alkalinity of a solution.
|
Rule 901:3-3-02 | Definitions for bread and other bakery products.
Effective:
April 28, 2003
(A) The operators of processing systems, retorts, aseptic processing and packaging systems, product formulating systems including systems wherein water activity is used in conjunction with thermal processing, and container closure inspectors shall be under the operating supervision of a person who has attended a school for giving instruction appropriate to the preservation technology involved and who has been identified by that school as having satisfactorily completed the prescribed course of instruction. This person shall supervise only in those areas for which the person satisfactorily completed training. (B) The supervisor identified in paragraph (A) of this rule shall supply the director, upon request, a copy of their certificate of completion for the prescribed applicable course of instruction.
|
Rule 901:3-3-03 | Definitions for bread and other bakery products.
Effective:
April 28, 2003
(A) Each retort shall be equipped with at least one mercury-in-glass thermometer. (1) Thermometer divisions are to be easily readable to one degree Fahrenheit and the temperature range shall not exceed seventeen degrees Fahrenheit per inch of graduated scale. (2) Thermometers shall be tested for accuracy against a known accurate standard thermometer upon installation and at least once a year thereafter to ensure their accuracy. (3) A thermometer that has a divided mercury column or that cannot be adjusted to the standard shall be repaired or replaced before further use of the retort. (4) Thermometers shall be installed where they can be accurately and easily read. Bulbs of indicating thermometers shall be installed either within the retort shell or in external wells attached to the retort. External wells or pipes shall be connected to the retort through at least a three-fourth inch diameter opening and equipped with a one-sixteenth inch or larger bleeder opening so located as to provide a full flow of steam past the length of the thermometer bulb. The bleeders for external wells shall emit steam continuously during the entire processing period. (5) The mercury thermometer shall be the reference instrument for indicating the processing temperature. The recorder chart shall not be used for this purpose. (B) Temperature-recording device. (1) Each still retort shall have an accurate temperature-recording device. Graduations on the temperature-recording devices shall not exceed two degrees Fahrenheit within a range of ten degrees Fahrenheit of the processing temperature. (2) Each chart shall have a working scale of not more than fifty-five degrees Fahrenheit per inch within a range of twenty degrees Fahrenheit of the processing temperature. The temperature chart shall be adjusted to agree as nearly as possible with, but to be in no event higher than, the known accurate mercury-in-glass thermometer during the process time. (3) A means of preventing unauthorized changes in adjustment shall be provided. (4) The temperature recording device may be combined with the steam controller and may be a recording-controlling instrument. (5) The temperature-recorder bulb shall be installed either within the retort shell or in a well attached to the shell. (6) Each temperature-recorder bulb well shall have a one-sixteenth inch or larger bleeder which emits steam continuously during the processing period. (C) Steam controller. Each retort shall be equipped with an automatic steam controller to maintain the retort temperature. (D) Steam inlet. The steam inlet to each still retort shall be large enough to provide sufficient steam for proper operation of the retort. Steam shall enter the retort opposite the vent. (E) Crate supports. (1) A bottom crate support shall be used in vertical still retorts. (2) Baffle plates shall not be used in the bottom of still retorts. (F) Steam spreaders. Steam spreaders are continuations of the steam inlet line inside the retort. Horizontal still retorts shall be equipped with steam spreaders that extend the length of the retort. (G) Bleeders. (1) Bleeders, except those for thermometer wells, shall be one-eighth inch or larger and shall be wide open during the entire process, including the come-up-time. For horizontal still retorts, bleeders shall be located within approximately one foot of the outermost locations of containers at each end along the top of the retort. Additional bleeders shall be located not more than eight feet apart along the top. Bleeders may be installed at alternative locations provided that any alternative location of the bleeders shall be accompanied by evidence in the form of heat distribution data that they accomplish adequate removal of air and circulation of steam within the retort. (2) Vertical retorts shall have at least one bleeder opening located in that portion of the retort opposite the steam inlet. (3) In retorts having top steam inlet and bottom venting, a bleeder shall be installed in the bottom of the retort to remove condensate. (4) All bleeders shall be arranged so that the operator can observe that they are functioning properly. (H) Stacking equipment and position of containers. Crates, trays, gondolas, and similar items used to hold containers shall be made of strap iron perforated sheet metal, or other suitable material. The positioning of containers in the retort, when specified in the scheduled process, shall be in accordance with that process. (I) Air valves. Retorts using air for pressure cooling shall be equipped with a suitable valve to prevent air leakage into the retort during processing. (J) Water valves. Retorts using water for cooling shall be equipped with a suitable valve to prevent leakage of water into the retort during processing. (K) Vents. (1) Vents shall be installed in such a way that air is removed from the retort before timing of the process is started. (2) Vents shall be controlled by gate, plug cock, or other adequate type valves which shall be fully open to permit rapid discharge of air from the retort during the venting period. (3) Vents shall not be connected directly to a closed drain system. If the overflow is used as a vent, there shall be an atmospheric break in the line before it connects to a closed drain. (4) The vent shall be located in that portion of the retort opposite the steam inlet. Where a retort manifold connects several vent pipes from a single still retort, it shall be controlled by a gate, plug cock, or other adequate type valve. (5) The retort manifold shall be of a size that the cross-sectional area of the pipe is larger than the total cross-sectional area of all connecting vents. (6) The discharge shall not be directly connected to a closed drain without an atmospheric break in the line. (7) A manifold header connecting vents or manifolds from several still retorts shall lead to the atmosphere. The manifold header shall not be controlled by a valve and shall be of a size that the cross-sectional area is at least equal to the total cross-sectional area of all connecting retort manifold pipes from all retorts venting simultaneously. (8) Timing of the process shall not begin until the retort has been properly vented and the processing temperature has been reached. (L) Critical factors. Critical factors specified in the scheduled process shall be measured and recorded on the processing record at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the factors are within the limits specified in the scheduled process as follows: (1) When maximum fill-in or drained weight is specified in the scheduled process, it shall be measured and recorded at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the weight of the product does not exceed the maximum for the given container size specified in the scheduled process. (2) Closing machine vacuum in vacuum-packed products shall be observed and recorded at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the vacuum is as specified in the scheduled process. (3) When the product style results in stratification or layering of the primary product in the containers, the positioning of containers in the retort shall be according to the scheduled process.
|
Rule 901:3-3-04 | Equipment and Procedures for Pressure Processing in Water in Still Retorts.
Effective:
April 28, 2003
(A) Each retort shall be equipped with at least one mercury-in-glass thermometer. (1) Thermometer divisions are to be easily readable to one degree Fahrenheit and the temperature range shall not exceed seventeen degrees Fahrenheit per inch of graduated scale. (2) Thermometers shall be tested for accuracy against a known accurate standard thermometer upon installation and at least once a year thereafter, to ensure their accuracy. (3) A thermometer that has a divided mercury column or that cannot be adjusted to the standard shall be repaired or replaced before further use of the retort. (4) Thermometers shall be installed where they can be accurately and easily read. Bulbs of indicating thermometers shall be located in such a position that they are beneath the surface of the water throughout the process. On horizontal retorts, the thermometer bulbs shall be inserted directly into the retort shell. In both vertical and horizontal retorts, the thermometer bulbs shall extend directly into the water a minimum of at lest two inches without a separable well or sleeve. (5) The mercury thermometer shall be the reference instrument for indicating the processing temperature. The recorder chart shall not be used for this purpose. (B) Temperature-recording device. (1) Each still retort shall have an accurate temperature-recording device. Graduations on the temperature-recording devices shall not exceed two degrees Fahrenheit within a range of ten degrees Fahrenheit of the processing temperature. (2) Each temperature chart shall have a working scale of not more than fifty-five degrees Fahrenheit per inch within a range of twenty degrees Fahrenheit of the processing temperature. The temperature chart shall be adjusted to agree as nearly as possible with, but to be in no event higher than, the known accurate mercury-in-glass thermometer during the process time. (3) A means of preventing unauthorized changes in adjustment of the temperature recording device shall be provided. (4) The temperature recording device may be combined with the steam controller and may be a recording-controlling instrument. In the case of a vertical retort equipped with a combination recorder-controller, the temperature recorder-control bulb shall be located at the bottom of the retort below the lowest crate rest in such a position that the steam does not strike it directly. In horizontal retorts, the temperature recorder-control bulb shall be located between the water surface and the horizontal plane passing through the center of the retort so that there is no opportunity for direct steam impingement on the control bulb. (C) Steam controller. Each retort shall be equipped with an automatic steam controller to maintain the retort temperature. (D) Steam introduction. Steam shall be distributed in the bottom of the retort in a manner adequate to provide uniform heat distribution throughout the retort. In horizontal retorts, the steam distributor shall run the length of the bottom of the retort with perforations distributed uniformly along the upper part of the pipe. (E) Crate supports. (1) A bottom crate support shall be used in vertical still retorts. (2) Baffle plates shall not be used in the bottom of the retort. (F) Stacking equipment and position of containers. Crates, trays, gondolas, and similar items used to hold containers shall be made of strap iron, adequately perforated sheet metal, or other suitable material. The positioning of containers in the retort, when specified in the scheduled process, shall be in accordance with that process. Dividers, racks, trays, or other means of positioning of flexible containers shall be designed and employed to ensure even circulation of heating medium around all containers in the retort. (G) Drain valve. A non-clogging, water-tight valve shall be used. (H) Water level indicator. (1) There shall be a means of determining the water level in the retort during operation, by using a gage, water glass, or petcock. (2) Water shall cover the top layer of containers during the entire come-up-time and processing periods. (3) The operator shall check and record the water level at intervals sufficient to ensure its adequacy. (I) Air supply and controls. In both horizontal and vertical still retorts for pressure processing in water, a means shall be provided for introducing compressed air at the proper pressure and rate. (1) The proper pressure shall be controlled by an automatic pressure control unit. (2) A check valve shall be provided in the air supply line to prevent water from entering the system. (3) Air or water circulation shall be maintained continuously during the come-up-time and during processing and cooling periods. (4) The adequacy of the air or water circulation for uniform heat distribution within the retort shall be established in accordance with procedures recognized by a processing authority and records shall be kept on file. (5) If air is used to promote circulation, it shall be introduced into the steam line at a point between the retort and the steam control valve at the bottom of the retort. (J) Water circulation. When a water circulating system is used for heat distribution, it shall be installed in such a manner that water will be drawn from the bottom of the retort through a suction manifold and discharged through a spreader which extends the length of the top of the retort. (1) The holes in the water spreader shall be uniformly distributed. (2) Debris shall be prevented from entering the circulating system. (3) The pump shall be equipped with a pilot light or other signaling device to warn the operator when it is not running, and with a bleeder to remove air when starting operations. (4) Alternative methods for circulation of water in the retort may be used when established as adequate for even heat distribution. (K) Critical factors. Critical factors specified in the scheduled process shall be measured and recorded on the processing record at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the factors are within the limits specified in the scheduled process as follows: (1) When maximum fill-in or drained weight is specified in the scheduled process, it shall be measured and recorded at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the weight of the product does not exceed the maximum for the given container size specified in the scheduled process. (2) Closing machine vacuum in vacuum-packed products shall be observed and recorded at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the vacuum is as specified in the scheduled process. (3) When the product style results in stratification or layering of the primary product in the containers, the positioning of containers in the retort shall be according to the scheduled process.
|
Rule 901:3-3-05 | Definitions for bread and other bakery products.
Effective:
April 28, 2003
(A) Each retort shall be equipped with at least one mercury-in-glass thermometer. (1) Thermometer divisions are to be easily readable to one degree Fahrenheit and the temperature range shall not exceed seventeen degrees Fahrenheit per inch of graduated scale. (2) Thermometers shall be tested for accuracy against a known accurate standard thermometer upon installation and at least once a year thereafter to ensure their accuracy. (3) A thermometer that has a divided mercury column or that cannot be adjusted to the standard shall be repaired or replaced before further use of the retort. (4) Thermometers shall be installed where they can be accurately and easily read. Bulbs in indicating thermometers shall be installed either within the retort shell or in external wells attached to the retort. (5) External wells or pipes shall be connected to the retort through at least a three-fourth inch diameter opening, and equipped with a one-sixteenth inch or larger bleeder opening so located as to provide a full flow of steam past the length of the thermometer bulb. The bleeders for external wells shall emit steam continuously during the entire processing period. (6) The mercury thermometer shall be the reference instrument for indicating the processing temperature. The recorder chart shall not be used for this purpose. (B) Temperature-recording device. (1) Each retort shall have an accurate temperature-recording device. Graduations on the temperature-recording devices shall not exceed two degrees Fahrenheit within a range of ten degrees Fahrenheit of the processing temperature. (2) Each temperature chart shall have a working scale of not more than fifty-five degrees Fahrenheit per inch within a range of twenty degrees Fahrenheit of the processing temperature. The temperature chart shall be adjusted to agree as nearly as possible with, but to be in no event higher than, the known accurate mercury-in-glass thermometer during the process time. (3) A means of preventing unauthorized changes in adjustment of the temperature recording device shall be provided. (4) The temperature recording device may be combined with the steam controller and may be a recording-controlling instrument. (5) The temperature-recorder bulb shall be installed either within the retort shell or in a well attached to the shell. (6) Each temperature-recorder bulb well shall have a one-sixteenth inch or larger bleeder opening emitting steam continuously during the processing period. (C) Steam controller. Each retort shall be equipped with an automatic steam controller to maintain the retort temperature. (D) Bleeders. (1) Bleeders, except those for thermometer wells, shall be one-eighth inch or larger and shall be wide open during the entire process, including the come-up-time. Bleeders shall be located within approximately one foot of the outermost location of containers at each end along the top of the retort. Additional bleeders shall be located not more than eight feet apart along the top of the retort. (2) All bleeders shall be arranged so that the operator can observe that they are functioning properly. (3) The condensate bleeder shall be checked with sufficient frequency to ensure adequate removal of condensate or shall be equipped with an automatic alarm system that would serve as a continuous monitor of condensate-bleeder functioning. (E) Venting and condensate removal. (1) Vents shall be located in that portion of the retort opposite the steam inlet. (2) Air shall be removed before processing is started. (3) Heat distribution data or documentary proof from the manufacturer or from a processing authority, demonstrating that adequate venting is achieved, shall be kept on file. (4) At the time steam is turned on, steam condensate shall be removed from the retort, and provision shall be made for continuing drainage of condensate during the retort operation. (F) Retort speed timing. (1) The rotational speed of the retort shall be specified in the scheduled process. (2) The speed shall be adjusted and recorded when the retort is started, at any time a speed change is made, and at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the retort speed is maintained as specified in the scheduled process. A means of preventing unauthorized speed changes on retorts shall be provided. A lock, or a notice from management posted at or near the speed adjustment device that provides a warning that only authorized persons are permitted to make adjustments, is satisfactory means of preventing unauthorized changes. (G) Emergency stops. (1) If a retort jams or breaks down during processing operations, necessitating cooling the retort for repairs, the retort shall be operated in such a way that ensures that the product is commercially sterile, or the retort is to be cooled promptly and all containers either reprocessed, re-packed and reprocessed, or discarded. (2) When operated as a still retort, all containers shall be given a full still retort process before the retort is cooled. If, in such an emergency, a scheduled still process or another process established to ensure commercial sterility is to be used, it shall be made readily available to the retort operator. (3) Any containers in the retort intake valve or in transfer valves between cooker shells of a continuous retort at the time of breakdown shall either be reprocessed, re-packed and reprocessed, or discarded. (4) Both the time at which the reel stopped and the time the retort was used for a still retort process, if so used, shall be marked on the recording chart and entered on the other production records required in this Chapter. (5) If the alternative procedure of prompt cooling is followed, the subsequent handling methods used for the containers in the retort at the time of stopping and cooling shall be entered on the production records. (H) Temperature drop. (1) If the temperature of the continuous retort drops below the temperature specified in the scheduled process while containers are in the retort, the retort reel shall be stopped promptly. (2) When the temperature drops below the specified process temperature the reel shall be stopped. Before the reel is restarted, all containers in the retort shall be given a complete scheduled still retort process if the temperature drop was ten degrees Fahrenheit or more below the specified temperature, or alternatively, container entry to the retort shall be stopped and the reel restarted to empty the retort. (3) The discharged containers shall be either reprocessed, re-packed and reprocessed, or discarded. (4) Both the time at which the reel stopped and the time the retort was used for a still retort process, if so used, shall be marked on the recording chart and entered on the other production records required in this chapter. (5) If the alternative procedure of emptying the retort is followed, the subsequent handing methods used for the containers in the retort at the time of the temperature drop shall be entered on the production records. (6) If the temperature drop was less than ten degrees Fahrenheit, a scheduled authorized emergency still process, approved by a person trained per rule 901:3-3-02 of the Administrative Code, may be used before restarting the retort reel. Alternatively, container entry to the retort shall be stopped and an authorized emergency agitating process may be used before container entry to the retort is restarted. (7) When emergency procedures are used, no containers may enter the retort and the process and procedures used shall be noted on the production records. (I) Critical factors. (1) Critical factors specified in the scheduled process shall be measured and recorded on the processing record at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the factors are within the limits specified in the scheduled process. (2) The minimum headspace of containers, if specified in the scheduled process, shall be measured and recorded at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the headspace is as specified in the scheduled process. (3) When the product consistency is specified in the scheduled process, the consistency of the product shall be determined by objective measurements on the product taken from the filler before processing and recorded at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the consistency is as specified in the scheduled process. (4) Minimum closing machine vacuum in vacuum-packed products, maximum fill-in or drained weight, minimum net weight, and percent solids shall be as specified in the scheduled process for all products when deviations from such specifications may affect the scheduled process.
|
Rule 901:3-3-06 | Definitions for bread and other bakery products.
Effective:
April 28, 2003
(A) Each retort shall be equipped with at least one mercury-in-glass thermometer. (1) Thermometer divisions are to be easily readable to one degree Fahrenheit and the temperature range shall not exceed seventeen degrees Fahrenheit per inch of graduated scale. (2) Thermometers shall be tested for accuracy against a known accurate standard thermometer upon installation and at least once a year thereafter to ensure their accuracy. (3) A thermometer that has a divided mercury column or that cannot be adjusted to the standard shall be repaired or replaced before further sue of the retort. (4) Thermometers shall be installed where they can be accurately and easily read. Bulbs of indicating thermometers shall be installed either within the retort shell or in external wells attached to the retort. (5) External wells or pipes shall be connected to the retort through at least a three-fourth inch diameter opening, and equipped with a one-sixteenth inch or larger bleeder opening so located as to provide a full flow of steam past the length of the thermometer bulb. (6) The bleeder for external wells shall emit steam continuously during the entire processing period. (7) The mercury thermometer shall be the reference instrument for indicating the processing temperature. The recorder chart shall not be used for this purpose. (B) Temperature-recording device. (1) Each retort shall have an accurate temperature-recording device. Graduations on the temperature-recording devices shall not exceed two degrees Fahrenheit within a range of ten degrees Fahrenheit of the processing temperature. (2) Each chart shall have a working scale of not more than fifty-five degrees Fahrenheit per inch within a range of twenty degrees Fahrenheit of the processing temperature. (3) The temperature chart shall be adjusted to agree as nearly as possible with, but to be in no event higher than, the known accurate mercury-in-glass thermometer during the process time. (4) A means of preventing unauthorized changes in adjustment shall be provided. (5) The temperature recording device may be combined with the steam controller and may be a recording-controlling instrument. (6) The temperature recorder bulb shall be installed either within the retort shell or in a well attached to the shell. (7) Each termperature recorder bulb well shall have a one-sixteenth inch or larger bleeder opening emitting steam continuously during the processing period. (C) Steam controller. Each retort shall be equipped with an automatic steam controller to maintain the retort termperature. (D) Bleeders. (1) Bleeders, except those for thermometer wells, shall be one-eighth inch or larger and shall be wide open during the entire process, including the come-up-time. Bleeders shall be located within approximately one foot of the outermost location of containers, at each end along the top of the retort. Additional bleeders shall be located not more than eight feet apart along the top. Bleeders may be installed at alternative locations provided that any alternative location of the bleeders shall be accompanied by evidence in the form of heat distribution data that they accomplish adequate removal of air and circulation of steam within the retort. (2) In retorts having top steam inlet and bottom venting, a bleeder shall be installed in the bottom of the retort to remove condensate. (3) All bleeders shall be arranged in a way that enables the operator to observe that they are functioning properly. (E) Venting and condensate removal. (1) The air in each retort shall be removed before processing is started. (2) Heat distribution data or documentary proof from the manufacturer or from a processing authority, demonstrating that adequate venting is achieved, shall be kept on file. (3) At the time steam is turned on, the drain should be opened for a time sufficient to remove steam condensate from the retort and provision should be made for containing drainage of condensate during the retort operation. (F) Retort speed timing. (1) The rotational speed of the retort shall be specified in the schedules process. The speed shall be adjusted, as necessary, to ensure that the speed is as specified in the scheduled process. (2) The rotational speed, as well as the process time, shall be recorded for each retort load processed. (3) A means of preventing unauthorized speed changes on retorts shall be provided. (G) Critical factors. (1) Critical factors specified in the schedules process shall be measured and recorded on the processing record at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the factors are within the limits specified in the scheduled process. (2) The minimum headspace of containers in each retort load to be processed, if specified in the scheduled process, shall be measured and recorded at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the headspace is as specified in the scheduled process. (3) When the product consistency is specified in the scheduled process, the consistency of the product shall be determined by objective measurements on the product taken from the filler before processing and recorded at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the consistency is as specified in the scheduled process. (4) Minimum closing machine vacuum in vacuum-packed products, maximum fill-in or drained weight, minimum net weight, and percent solids shall be as specified in the scheduled process for all products for which deviations from such specifications may affect the scheduled process.
|
Rule 901:3-3-07 | Equipment and Procedures for Pressure Processing in Water in Discontinuous Agitating Retorts.
Effective:
April 28, 2003
(A) Each retort shall be equipped with at least one mercury-in-glass thermometer. (1) Thermometer divisions are to be easily readable to one degree Fahrenheit and the temperature range shall not exceed seventeen degrees Fahrenheit per inch of graduated scale. (2) Thermometers shall be tested for accuracy against a known accurate standard thermometer upon installation and at least once a year thereafter to ensure their accuracy. (3) A thermometer that has a divided mercury column or that cannot be adjusted to the standard shall be repaired or replaced before further use of the retort. Thermometers shall be installed where they can be accurately and easily read. Bulbs of indicating thermometers shall be installed either within the retort shell or in external wells attached to the retort. (4) The mercury thermometer shall be the reference instrument for indicating the processing temperature. The recorder chart shall not be used for this purpose. (B) Temperature-recording device. (1) Each retort shall have an accurate temperature-recording device. Graduations on the temperature-recording devices shall not exceed two degrees Fahrenheit within a range of ten degrees Fahrenheit of the processing temperature. (2) Each chart shall have a working scale of not more than fifty-five degrees Fahrenheit per inch within a range of twenty degrees Fahrenheit of the processing temperature. The temperature chart shall be adjusted to agree as nearly as possible with, but to be in no event higher than, the known accurate mercury-in-glass thermometer during the process time. (3) A means of preventing unauthorized changes in adjustment shall be provided. (4) This temperature recording device may be combined with the steam controller and may be a recording-controlling instrument. (5) The temperature-recorder bulb shall be installed either within the retort shell or in a well attached to the shell. (C) Steam controller. Each retort shall be equipped with an automatic steam controller to maintain the retort temperature. (D) Retort speed timing. (1) The rotational speed of the retort shall be specified in the scheduled process (2) The speed shall be adjusted, as necessary, to ensure that the speed is as specified in the scheduled process. (3) The rotational speed as well as the process time shall be recorded for each retort load processed. (4) A means of preventing unauthorized speed changes shall be provided. (E) Air supply and controls. (1) A means shall be provided for introducing compressed air at the proper pressure and rate, which shall be controlled by an automatic pressure control unit. (2) A check valve shall be provided in the air supply line to prevent water from entering the system. (F) Critical factors. (1) Critical factors specified in the scheduled process shall be measured and recorded on the processing record at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the factors are within the limits specified in the scheduled process. (2) The minimum headspace of containers, if specified in the scheduled process, shall be measured and recorded at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the headspace is as specified in the scheduled process. (3) When the product consistency is specified in the scheduled process, the consistency of the product shall be determined by objective measurements on the product taken from the filler before processing and recorded at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the consistency is as specified in the scheduled process. (4) Minimum closing machine vacuum in vacuum-packed products, maximum fill-in or drained weight, minimum net weight, and percent solids shall be as specified in the scheduled process for all products when deviations from such specifications may affect the scheduled process.
|
Rule 901:3-3-08 | Equipment and Procedures for Pressure Processing in Steam in Hydrostatic Retorts.
Effective:
April 28, 2003
(A) Each retort shall be equipped with at least one mercury-in-glass thermometer. (1) Thermometer divisions are to be easily readable to one degree Fahrenheit and the temperature range shall not exceed seventeen degrees Fahrenheit per inch of graduated scale. (2) Thermometers shall be tested for accuracy against a known accurate standard thermometer upon installation and at least once a year thereafter to ensure their accuracy. (3) A thermometer that has a divided mercury column or that cannot be adjusted to the standard shall be repaired or replaced before further use of the retort. (4) Thermometers shall be installed where they can be accurately and easily read. The thermometer shall be located in the steam dome near the steam-water interface. (5) When the scheduled process specifies maintenance of particular temperatures in the hydrostatic water legs, a mercury-in-glass thermometer shall be located in each hydrostatic water leg in a position near the bottom automatic recorder. (6) The mercury thermometer shall be the references instrument for indicating the processing temperature. The recorder chart shall not be used for this purpose. (B) Temperature-recording device. (1) Each retort shall have an accurate temperature-recording device. Graduations on the temperature-recording devices shall not exceed two degrees Fahrenheit within a range of ten degrees Fahrenheit of the processing temperature. (2) Each chart shall have a working scale of not more than fifty-five degrees Fahrenheit per inch within a range of twenty degrees Fahrenheit of the processing temperature. (3) The temperature chart shall be adjusted to agree as nearly as possible with, but to be in no event higher than, the known accurate mercury-in-glass thermometer during the process time. (4) A means of preventing unauthorized changes in adjustment shall be provided. (5) The temperature recording device may be combined with the steam controller and may be a recording-controlling instrument. (6) The temperature-recorder bulb shall be installed either within the steam dome or in a well attached to the dome. (7) Each temperature-recorder bulb well shall have a one-sixteenth inch or larger bleeder opening which emits steam continuously during the processing period. (8) Additional temperature-recorder bulbs shall be installed in the hydrostatic water legs if the scheduled process specified maintenance of particular temperatures in the hydrostatic water legs. (C) Recording of temperatures. (1) Temperatures indicated by the mercury-in-glass thermometer or thermometers shall be entered on a suitable form during processing operations. (2) Temperatures shall be recorded by an accurate automatic recorder or recorders at the following points: (a) In the steam chamber between the steam-water interface and the lowest container position. (b) Near the top and the bottom of each hydrostatic water leg if the scheduled process specifies maintenance of particular temperatures in the legs. (D) Steam controller. Each retort shall be equipped with an automatic steam controller to maintain the retort temperature. (E) Venting. Before the start of processing operations, the retort steam chamber or chambers shall be vented to ensure removal of air. (F) Bleeders. (1) Bleeder openings one-fourth inch or larger shall be located at the top of the steam chamber or chambers opposite the point of steam entry. (2) Bleeders shall be wide open and shall emit steam continuously during the entire process, including the come-up-time. (3) All bleeders shall be arranged in such a way that the operator can observe that they are functioning properly. (G) Retort speed. (1) The speed of the container-conveyor chain shall be specified in the scheduled process and shall be determined and recorded at the start of processing and at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the retort speed is maintained as specified. (2) When the temperature drops below that specified in the scheduled process the container conveyor chain shall be stopped. (3) A means of preventing unauthorized speed changes shall be provided. (H) Critical factors. Critical factors specified in the scheduled process shall be measured and recorded on the processing record at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the factors are within the limits specified in the scheduled process. (1) When maximum fill-in or drained weight is specified in the scheduled process, it shall be measured and recorded at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the weight of the product does not exceed the maximum for the given container size specified in the scheduled process. (2) Closing machine vacuum in vacuum-packed products shall be observed and recorded at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the vacuum is as specified in the scheduled process.
|
Rule 901:3-3-09 | Aseptic Processing and Packaging Systems-Product Sterilizer Equipment.
Effective:
April 28, 2003
(A) Temperature-indicating device. (1) Each product sterilizer shall be equipped with at least one mercury-in-glass thermometer or an equivalent temperature-indicating device. (2) Mercury-in-glass thermometers shall have divisions that are easily readable to one degree Fahrenheit and whose temperature range does not exceed seventeen degrees Fahrenheit per inch of graduated scale. (3) Thermometers and temperature-indicating devices shall be tested for accuracy against a known accurate standard thermometer upon installation and at least once a year to ensure their accuracy. (4) A thermometer that has a divided mercury column or that cannot be adjusted to essential agreement with the standard shall be repaired or replaced. (5) Thermometers and temperature-indicating devices shall be installed where they can be accurately and easily read. (6) The temperature-indicating device shall be the reference instrument for indicating the processing temperature. (B) Temperature-recording device. (1) There shall be an accurate temperature recording device on each product sterilizer. (2) The device shall be installed in the product at the holding-tube outlet between the holding tube and the inlet to the cooler. (3) Temperature-recording devices shall have graduations that do not exceed two degrees Fahrenheit within a range of ten degrees Fahrenheit of the processing temperature. (4) Each chart shall have a working scale of not more than fifty-five degrees Fahrenheit per inch within a range of twenty degrees Fahrenheit of the desired product-sterilization temperature. (5) The temperature chart shall be adjusted to agree as nearly as possible with, but to be in no event higher than, a known accurate mercury-in-glass thermometer. (6) A means of preventing unauthorized changes in adjustment shall be provided. (C) Temperature recorder-controller. An accurate temperature recorder-controller shall be located in the product sterilizer at the final heater outlet. It shall be capable of ensuring that the desired product sterilization temperature is maintained. The chart graduations shall not exceed two degrees Fahrenheit within a range of ten degrees Fahrenheit of the desired product sterilization temperature. (D) Product-to-product regenerators. When a product-to-product regenerator is used to heat the cold unsterilized product entering the sterilizer by means of a heat exchange system, it shall be designed, operated, and controlled so that the pressure of the sterilized product in the regenerator is greater than the pressure of any unsterilized product in the regenerator. (E) Differential pressure recorder-controller. (1) When a product-to-product regenerator is used, there shall be an accurate differential pressure recorder-controller installed on the regenerator. (2) The scale divisions shall not exceed two pounds per square inch on the working scale of not more than twenty pounds per square inch per inch. (3) The controller shall be tested for accuracy against a known accurate standard pressure indicator upon installation and at least once every three months of operation to ensure its accuracy. (4) One pressure sensor shall be installed at the sterilized product regenerator outlet and the other pressure sensor shall be installed at the unsterilized product regenerator inlet. (F) Metering pump. (1) A metering pump shall be located upstream from the holding tube and shall be operated to maintain the required rate of product flow. (2) A means of preventing unauthorized speed changes shall be provided. (G) Product holding tube. (1) The product-sterilizing holding tube shall be designed to give continuous holding of every particle of food for at least the minimum holding time specified in the scheduled process. (2) The holding tube shall be designed so that no portion of the tube between the product inlet and the product outlet can be heated, and it must be sloped upward at least one-fourth inch per foot.
|
Rule 901:3-3-10 | Aseptic processing and packaging systems-product sterilizer operation.
Effective:
August 22, 2013
(A) Start up. Before the start of aseptic processing operations the product sterilizer and all product-contact surfaces downstream shall be brought to a condition of commercial sterility. (B) Temperature drop. If product is subjected to a temperature drop below the scheduled process is filled into containers, the product shall be segregated from product that received the scheduled process. The processing deviation shall be handled in accordance with paragraph (D) of rule 901:3-3-17 of the Administrative Code. The product holding tube and any further system portions affected shall be returned to a condition of commercial sterility before product flow is resumed to the filler or to the aseptic surge tank. (C) Regenerator If product is subjected to loss of proper pressure in the regenerator and the product is filled into containers, the product shall be segregated from product that received the scheduled process and shall be reprocessed or destroyed. Product flow to the filler or to the aseptic surge tank shall not be resumed until the cause of the improper pressure relationships in the regenerator has been corrected and the affected system has been returned to a condition of commercial sterility. (D) Aseptic surge tank. When an aseptic surge tank is used, conditions of commercial sterility may be lost when the sterile air over pressure or other means of protection drops below the scheduled process value. Product flow to and/or from the aseptic surge tank shall not be resumed until the potentially contaminated product in the tank is removed, and the aseptic surge tank has been returned to a condition of commercial sterility. (E) Observations and recordings. Readings at the following points shall be observed and recorded at the start of aseptic packaging operations and at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that these values are as specified in the scheduled process: (1) Temperature-indicating device in holding tube outlet. (2) Temperature recorder in holding tube outlet. (3) Temperature recorder-controller at final heater outlet. (4) Differential pressure recorder-controller, if a product-to-product regenerator is used. (5) Product flow rate as established by the metering pump or as determined by filling and closing rates and, if an aseptic surge tank is used, sterile air pressure or other protection means; and (6) Proper performance of seam seals or other similar devices.
|
Rule 901:3-3-11 | Aseptic Processing and Packaging Systems Container Sterilizing, Filling, and Closing Operation-Equipment.
Effective:
April 28, 2003
(A) Recording device. (1) The container and closure sterilization system and product filling and closing system shall be instrumented to demonstrate that the required sterilization is being accomplished continuously. (2) Automatic recording devices shall be used to record, when applicable, the sterilization media flow rates, temperature, concentration, or other factors. (3) When a batch system is used for container sterilization, the sterilization conditions shall be recorded. (B) Timing methods. (1) Methods shall be used either to give the retention time of containers, and closures if applicable, in the sterilizing environment specified in the scheduled process, or to control the sterilization cycle at the rate specified in the scheduled process. (2) A means of preventing unauthorized speed changes shall be provided.
|
Rule 901:3-3-12 | Aseptic processing and packaging systems container sterilizing, filling, and closing operation-operation.
Effective:
August 22, 2013
(A) Startup. Before the start of packaging operations, both the container and closure sterilizing system and the product filling and closing system shall be brought to a condition of commercial sterility. (B) Loss of sterility. A system shall be provided to stop packaging operations, or alternatively to ensure segregation of any product packaged when the packaging conditions fall below scheduled processes. In the event product is packaged under conditions below those specified in the scheduled process, all such product shall be segregated and handled in accordance with paragraph (D) of rule 901:3-3-17 of the Administrative Code. In the event of loss of sterility, the system shall be returned to a condition of commercial sterility before resuming packaging operations. (C) Records. Observations and measurements of operating conditions shall be made and recorded at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that commercial sterility of the food product is being achieved. Such measurements shall include the sterilization media flow rates, temperatures, the container and closure rates is applicable, through the sterilizing system, and the sterilization conditions if a batch system is used for container sterilization. (D) Critical factors. Critical factors specified in the scheduled process shall be measured and recorded on the processing record at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the factors are within the limits specified in the scheduled process.
|
Rule 901:3-3-13 | Equipment and procedures for flame sterilizers.
(A) The container conveyor speed shall be specified in the scheduled process. The container conveyor speed shall be measured and recorded at the start of operations and at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the conveyor speed is as specified in the scheduled process. (B) A means of preventing changes in flame intensity and unauthorized speed changes on the conveyor shall be provided. (C) The surface temperature of at least one container from each conveyor channel shall be measured and recorded at the entry and at the end of the holding period at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the temperatures specified in the scheduled process are maintained. (D) Critical factors specified in the scheduled process shall be measured and recorded on the processing record at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the factors are within the limits specified in the scheduled process.
|
Rule 901:3-3-14 | Equipment and procedure for thermal processing foods using critical factors.
(A) The equipment, procedures, methods, and controls used for the manufacture, processing, and packing of thermal processed foods where critical factors such as water activity are used in conjunction with thermal processing shall be established in the scheduled process and shall be operated or administered in a manner adequate to ensure that the product is safe. (B) The time and temperature of processing and other critical factors specified in the scheduled process shall be measured with instruments having the accuracy and dependability adequate to ensure that the requirements of the scheduled process are met. All measurements shall be made and recorded at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the critical factors are within the limits specified in the scheduled process.
|
Rule 901:3-3-15 | Other systems.
(A) All systems, whether or not specifically mentioned in this chapter for the thermal processing of low-acid foods in hermetically sealed containers, shall conform to the applicable requirements of this chapter. Additionally, the methods and controls used for the manufacture, processing, and packing of low-acid foods shall be as established in the scheduled process. These systems shall be operated or administered in a manner adequate to ensure that commercial sterility is achieved. (B) Critical factors specified in the scheduled process shall be measured and recorded at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure that the critical factors are within the limits specified in the scheduled process.
|
Rule 901:3-3-16 | Control of components, food product containers, closures, and in-process materials-containers.
(A) Closures of food product containers. (1) Regular observations shall be maintained during production runs for gross closure defects. Any such defects shall be recorded and corrective action taken and recorded. The operator, closure supervisor, or other container closure inspection person shall visually examine either the top seam of a can randomly selected from each seaming head or the closure of any other type of container being used. These examinations and a record of the observations shall be made at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure proper closure. All pertinent observations shall be recorded. When irregularities are found, the corrective action shall be recorded. (2) Additional visual closure inspections shall be made immediately following: (a) A jam in a closing machine; (b) A closing machine adjustment; and (c) A startup of a closing machine following a prolonged shutdown. (3) Teardown examinations for double-seam cans shall be performed and the results shall be recorded at intervals of sufficient frequency on enough containers from each seaming station to ensure maintenance of seam integrity. The results of the teardown examinations shall be recorded and the corrective action taken, if any, shall be noted. (a) Required can seam measurements: (i) Micrometer measurements are required for covered hook, body hook, width, tightness for wrinkle and thickness. (ii) Seam scope or projector measurements are required for body hook, overlap tightness for wrinkles, and thickness by micrometer. (iii) Double seam can terminology: (a) Crossover means the portion of a double seam at the lap. (b) Cutover means a fracture, sharp bend, or break in the metal at the top of the inside portion of the double seam. (c) Deadhead means a seam which is incomplete due to chuck spinning in the countersink. (d) Droop means smooth projection of double seam below bottom of normal seam. (e) False seam means a small seam breakdown where the cover hook and the body hook are not overlapped. (f) Lap means two thicknesses of material bonded together. (b) Two measurements at different locations, excluding the sideseam, shall be made for each double seam characteristic if a seam scope or seam projector is used. When a micrometer is used, three measurements shall be made at points approximately one hundred twenty degrees apart, excluding the sideseam. (c) Overlap length can be calculated by the following formula: Theoretical overlap length = ch+bh+t-w, where ch=cover hook; bh=body hook; t=cover thickness; and w=seam width (height, length). (4) For glass containers with vacuum closures, capper efficiency shall be checked by a measurement of the cold water vacuum. This shall be done before actual filling operations, and the results shall be recorded. (5) For closures other than double seams and glass containers, appropriate detailed inspections and tests shall be conducted at intervals of sufficient frequency to ensure proper closing machine performance and consistently reliable hermetic seal production. Records of such tests shall be maintained. (B) Container cooling water shall be chlorinated or otherwise sanitized as necessary for cooling canals and for recirculated water supplies. (C) Coding of food product containers. (1) Each hermetically sealed container of low-acid processed food shall be marked with an identifying code that shall be permanently visible to the naked eye. (2) The required identification shall identify in code the establishment where packed, the product contained therein, the year packed, the day packed, and the period during which packed. (3) The packing period code shall be changed with sufficient frequency to enable ready identification of lots during their sale and distribution. (4) Codes may be changed on the basis of one of the following intervals: (a) Four to five hours; (b) Personnel shift changes; or (c) Batches, as long as the containers that constitute the batch do not extend over a period of more than one personnel shift.
|
Rule 901:3-3-17 | Production and process controls.
(A) Product preparation. (1) Before using raw materials and ingredients susceptible to microbiological contamination, the processor shall ensure that those materials and ingredients are suitable for use in processing low-acid food. (2) The filling of containers, either mechanically or by hand, shall be controlled to ensure that the filling requirements specified in the scheduled process are met. (3) The exhausting of containers for the removal of air shall be controlled to meet the conditions for which the process was designed. Compliance with the requirement may be accomplished by heat exhausting, mechanical exhausting, hot brining, or steam injection. (4) When the maintenance of pH above 4.6 of a normally low-acid food is a basis for a scheduled process, there shall be careful supervision to ensure that the equilibrium pH of the finished product meets that of the scheduled process. (5) When the scheduled process sets forth critical factors to prevent the growth of microorganisms not destroyed by the thermal process, the factors shall be carefully controlled to ensure that the limits established in the scheduled process are not exceeded. (6) When normally low-acid foods require sufficient solute to permit safe processing at low temperatures, such as in boiling water, there shall be careful supervision to ensure that the equilibrium water activity (aw) of the finished product meets that of the scheduled process. (7) The scheduled thermal processes for foods having an aw greater than 0.85 and less than the aw that would allow the growth of spores of microorganisms of public health significance shall be sufficient to render the food free of microorganisms capable of reproducing in the food under normal nonrefrigerated conditions of storage and distribution. (B) Scheduled processes for low acid foods. (1) Processor shall supply upon request a copy of: (a) Their FDA food canning establishment number. (b) The scheduled process filed with the FDA including a listing of critical control points. (2) Complete records covering all aspects of the establishment of the process and associated incubation test shall be prepared and shall be permanently retained by the person or organization making the determination. (C) Operations in the thermal processing room. (1) Operating processes and retort venting procedures to be used for each product and container size being packed shall either be posted in a conspicuous place near the processing equipment or be made readily available to the retort or processing system operator and any duly authorized employee of the Ohio department of agriculture. Scheduled processes must be made readily available to the supervisor and any duly authorized employee of the Ohio department of agriculture. (2) A system for product traffic control in the retort room shall be established to prevent unretorted product from bypassing the retort process. (a) Each retort basket, truck, car, or crate used to hold containers in a retort, or one or more containers therein, shall, if it contains any retorted food product, be plainly and conspicuously marked with a heat-sensitive indicator, or by other effective means that will indicate visually, to thermal processing personnel, those units that have been retorted. (b) A visual check shall be performed to determine whether or not the appropriate change has occurred in the heat-sensitive indicator as a result of retorting for all retort baskets, trucks, cars, or crates, to ensure that each unit of product has been retorted. (3) The initial temperature of the contents of the containers to be processed shall be determined and recorded with sufficient frequency to ensure that the temperature of the product is no lower than the minimum initial temperature specified in the scheduled process. For those operations that use water during the filling of the retort or during processing, provision shall be made to ensure that the water will not, before the start of each thermal process, lower the initial temperature of the product below that specified in the scheduled process. (4) Timing devices used in recording thermal process time information shall be accurate to ensure that the processing time and venting time specified in the scheduled process are achieved. A pocket or wrist watch is not considered satisfactory for timing purposes. Digital clocks may be used if the operating process and the venting schedule have a one minute or greater safety factor over the scheduled process. (5) The steam supply to the thermal processing system shall be adequate to the extent needed to ensure that sufficient steam pressure is maintained during thermal processing, regardless of other demands of steam by the plant. (6) If mufflers are used on bleeders or vent systems, evidence that the bleeders or vents are operated in a manner that does not significantly impede the removal of air shall be kept on file. This evidence may be in the form of heat distribution data or other satisfactory evidence. (D) Deviations in processing, venting, or control of critical factors. (1) Whenever any process is less than the scheduled process or when critical factors are out of control for any low-acid food or container system as disclosed from records by processor check or otherwise, the commercial processor of that low-acid food shall either: (a) Fully reprocess that portion of the production involved, keeping full records of their processing conditions; or (b) Must set aside that portion of the product involved for further evaluation as to any potential public health significance. (i) The evaluation shall be made to detect any potential hazard to public health. (ii) Unless this evaluation demonstrates that the product had been given a thermal process that rendered it free of microorganisms of potential public health significance, the product set aside shall be either fully reprocessed to render it commercially sterile or destroyed. (2) A record shall be made of the evaluation procedures used and the results. Either upon completion of full reprocessing and the attainment of commercial sterility or after the determination that no significant potential for public health hazard exists, that portion of the product involved may be shipped in normal distribution. Otherwise, the portion of the product involved shall be destroyed. (3) All process deviations involving a failure to satisfy the minimum requirements of the scheduled process, including emergencies arising from a jam or breakdown of a continuous agitating retort necessitating cooling the retort for repairs, shall be recorded and made the subject of a separate file or a log identifying the appropriate data detailing those deviations and the actions taken. (E) A manufacturer shall promptly notify the director or the director's designee of any instance of spoilage, process deviation, or contamination with microorganisms when: (1) There is a potential health endangering significance; and (2) Where the lot of such food, in whole or in part, has entered distribution in commerce. (F) A manufacturer shall prepare and maintain files on procedures which contains plans for the following: (1) Recalling products; (2) Identifying, collecting, warehousing and controlling products; (3) Determining the effectiveness of recalls; (4) Notifying the director of any recalls; and (5) Implementing recall programs.
|
Rule 901:3-3-18 | Processing and production records.
(A) Processing and production information shall be entered at the time it is observed by the retort or processing system operator, or other designated person. (1) Processing and production information shall be recorded on forms that include the following information: (a) Product; (b) Code number; (c) Date; (d) Retort or processing number; (e) Size of the container; (f) Approximate number of containers per coding interval; (g) Initial temperature; (h) Actual procssing time; (i) Mercury-in-glass and recording thermometer readings; and (j) Other appropriate processing data. (2) Closing machine vacuum in vacuum-packed products, maximum fill-in or drained weight, or other critical factors specified in the scheduled process shall also be recorded. (3) In addition, the following records shall be maintained, when applicable: (a) Still retorts. Time steam on; time temperature up to processing temperature; time steam off; venting time and temperature to which vented. (b) Agitating retorts. Functioning of condensate bleeder; retort speed; and, when specified in the scheduled process, headspace, consistency, maximum drained weight, minimum net weight, and percent solids. (c) Hydrostatic retorts. The temperature in the steam chamber between the steam-water interface and the lowest container position; speed of the container conveyor chain; and, when the scheduled process specifies maintenance of particular temperatures in the hydrostatic water legs, the temperatures near the top and the bottom of each hydrostatic water leg. (d) Aseptic processing and packaging systems. Product temperature in the holding tube outlet as indicated by the temperature-indicating device and the temperature recorder; product temperature in the final heater outlet as indicated by the temperature recorder-controller; differential pressure as indicated by the differential pressure recorder-controller, if a product-to-product regenerator is used; product flow rate, as determined by the metering pump or by filling and closing rates; sterilization media flow rate or temperature or both; retention time of containers, and closures when applicable, in the sterilizing environment; and, when a batch system is used for container and/or closure sterilization, sterilization cycle times and temperatures. (e) Flame sterilizers. Container conveyor speed; surface temperature at the beginning and at the end of the holding period; nature of container. (f) Food preservation methods wherein critical factors such as water activity are used in conjunction with thermal processing. Product formulation and scheduled processes used, including the thermal process, its associated critical factors, as well as other critical factors, and results of aw determinations. (g) Other systems. Critical factors specified in the formulation of the product or in the scheduled process. (B) Recording thermometer charts shall be identified by date, retort number, and other data as necessary, so they can be correlated with the written record of lots processed. (1) Each entry on the processing and production records shall be made by the retort or processing system operator, or other designated person, at the time the specific retort or processing system condition or operation occurs, and this retort or processing system operator or other designated person shall sign or initial each record form. Not later that one working day after the actual process, and before shipment or release for distribution, a representative of plant management shall review all processing and production records for completeness and to ensure that the product received the scheduled process. (2) The records, including the recording thermometer charts, shall be signed or initialed and dated by the reviewer. (C) Written records of all container closure examinations shall specify the product code, the date and time of container closure inspections, the measurements obtained, and all corrective actions taken. Records shall be signed or initialed by the container closure inspector and reviewed by management with sufficient frequency to ensure that the containers are hermetically sealed. (D) Records shall be maintained to identify the initial distribution of the finished product to facilitate, when necessary, the segregation of specific food lots that may have become contaminated or otherwise rendered unfit for their intended use. (E) Copies of all records provided for in this rule, except those required under paragraph (B) of rule 901:3-3-14 of the Administrative Code, shall be retained at the processing plant for a period of not less than one year from the date of manufacture, and at the processing plant or other reasonably accessible location for an additional two years. If, during the first year of the three-year record-retention period, the processing plant is closed for a prolonged period between seasonal packs, the records may be transferred to some other reasonably accessible location at the end of the seasonal pack.
|
