How to ensure water quality in food processing
Water is one of the most valuable resources on earth. As we know, water is used for many purposes in agriculture, households, industries, recreational and environmental activities. However, the primary concern is that water is a scarce resource, mainly due to climate change, an increase in pollution, wastage and higher human demand. But, water scarcity isn’t a new issue and communities and businesses have been working together. Many businesses have ensured they use water wisely, and effluent water is discharged into the environment.
Having clean, drinkable water is essential to all. As a business in the food and beverage industry, you understand that water is one of the key components of running a successful business. Often overlooked, water is used during many processes. For example, it is used during cleaning, incorporated in recipes and ingredients. Although one may assume that their water sources produce clean water, it is important to evaluate it before proceeding with any processes. Managing your water will ensure that your products are safe for consumption, and no damage is being done to your businesses integrity. This article will look at how your business can ensure that their water quality is safe during and after processes. Therefore, read down below to see how you can ensure your water is of the highest quality.
Find out the source of contamination
The first step is understanding the water quality and which contaminants may affect the water supply. By finding out what contaminants are in the water, you can find the right treatment method. It is important to look at pollutants that come into contact with water, even before food processes. That way, you can deal with any issues before production. Physical contaminants that come from water sources are usually controlled with filtration systems. And, chemical contaminants with pesticides or heavy metal go through water treatments, which remove the pesticides, ensuring high-quality water before production.
Make sure the storage and distribution is above board
Effective storage and distribution are crucial in ensuring water quality. When it comes to water quality, the same principles that apply to food manufacturing equipment needs to be followed. For example, with food manufacturing equipment, immobile and dead ends areas or spaces should always be avoided. The entire system needs to be clean and examined regularly. These practices should be the same when it comes to water as well. All storage tanks need to be cleaned and disinfected, vents need to have air filters and insect screens installed, and all tanks should be designed to contain water for a maximum of 24 hours. Ensuring that the water quality is still good.
Have a water treatment plan
Finding the right treatment plant depends on your business’s water source, storage system and intended application of the water. As mentioned previously, water should be removed of any contaminants prior to any processes. However, at times that may not be achieved, and water gets treated during food processing. This is where having water treatment in food production is so beneficial for your business. A water purification company will ensure that the water you produce is of high quality before production. And, it will make sure your food processing wastewater is treated as well before it is discharged back into the water.
The most common treatment processes are as follows:
Filtration
Filtration depends on the risk of the contamination. This process requires water to go through a filter that will filter out the solids. There are different types of filtration processes:
- Ultra Filtration (UF), which is a pressure-driven purification process. The UF separates particle matter from soluble compounds, using ultrafine membranes.
- Reverse osmosis (RO) is a commonly used practice in industries. The water purifying process is when partially permeable membranes remove ions, unwanted molecules and large particles found in drinking water.
- Iron Oxidation is the treatment process designed to remove iron and manganese that are naturally found in water. During the process of oxidation, the soluble forms of both iron and manganese will be made insoluble. Then once it has been converted, the insoluble will be removed through filtration.
Ultra Violet Disinfection
UV disinfection is an effective disinfectant, this is mainly because of its strong germicidal ability. The UV inactivates bacteria and viruses that may be found in water. This water treatment process has been used for several years by different business sectors and is beneficial for the food and beverage industry.
Final thoughts
As mentioned in this article, the food industry uses a large quantity of water daily. And, if the water quality isn’t checked thoroughly, it can have serious implications for the brand. Particles in the water that aren’t removed can change the overall taste of the product, which might affect the business’s integrity and profits.