Listeria, formally known as Listeria monocytogenes, is a bacteria variety commonly found in soil, water, and some animal species. It poses a significant risk to food safety as it has the capacity to contaminate a variety of food items, with a particular penchant for dairy products, processed meats, and ready-to-eat foods. Notably, Listeria stands out for its resilience, as it can not only survive but thrive in refrigerated conditions.
Listeria infection, referred to as listeriosis, can afflict individuals who consume tainted food. While many individuals may come into contact with Listeria, not everyone who ingests it falls ill. However, specific demographic groups are notably vulnerable to listeriosis, including individuals with compromised immune systems, the elderly, expectant mothers, and newborns. For these susceptible populations, listeriosis can manifest as a severe and potentially life-threatening illness. Therefore at SGA, we take your safety seriously. Recent concerns about Listeria outbreaks have prompted us to explain how we’re tackling this issue. We want to assure you that we’re committed to your well-being, especially when it comes to facilities that trust us.
Accreditation’s You Can Count On
We’re proud to have earned some important accreditations:
• Food Safety ISO 22000: This means we’re diligent about food safety and follow strict standards.
• Quality ISO 9001: We’re all about quality, and this accreditation shows our dedication to delivering top-notch products.
• Occupational Health and Safety ISO 45001: We care about our employees’ safety, and this accreditation reflects that.
• Environmental Management ISO 14001: We’re also committed to being environmentally responsible.
Lending A Hand To Listeria Prevention
To strengthen our Listeria prevention efforts, we’ve partnered with PhageGuard, a cutting-edge technology. PhageGuard uses naturally occurring viruses called bacteriophages to target and eliminate Listeria. This innovative approach enhances our commitment to keeping your food safe.
A Wider Perspective
Concerns about Listeria aren’t limited to Queensland alone; cases have been reported in other states too. In New South Wales, there have been three cases, and Victoria has reported one case. We acknowledge these concerns, and we’re committed to addressing them as part of our broader approach to food safety.
Your Safety Is Our Priority
When it comes to Listeria prevention, we’ve got a game plan:
Regular Cleaning & Sanitization: We’re always on top of cleaning and sanitizing equipment and surfaces in facilities that trust us. If Listeria ever shows up, we’ll kick our cleaning efforts into high gear, especially in areas with higher risks. We’re talking about thorough disinfection and sterilization to keep your food safe.
Temperature Control: We’re sticklers for keeping things at the right temperature. If we find Listeria, we’ll make sure that everything in our trusted facilities stays cool. We’ll fix or replace any equipment that’s not up to snuff to prevent Listeria from making itself at home.
Employee Training: Our team is top-notch, and their training reflects that. In response to Listeria concerns, we’ll double down on training for our staff in these trusted facilities. We’ll make sure they know the ins and outs of Listeria prevention, including keeping things clean, following hygiene practices, and understanding the risks.
Quality Control & Testing: Quality and safety are in our DNA. If we detect Listeria, we won’t rest. We’ll step up our quality control and testing game in these trusted facilities. We’ll test products and production lines rigorously. If we find any contamination, we’ll isolate affected products and investigate further to ensure your safety.
Conclusion
In conclusion, as we navigate the complex landscape of Listeria and its potential risks, we do so with the confidence that biotechnology empowers us to combat this bacterium effectively. Our commitment to food safety remains unwavering, as we employ cutting-edge solutions to protect you and your loved ones. Together, let’s continue to prioritize safe food handling and awareness, ensuring that Listeria concerns never compromise the enjoyment of a delicious, healthy meal.