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Do you know what mysterious standards operate behind food safety?
The concept of food quality is often based on the sensory characteristics of food, such as taste, aroma and appearance, as well as its nutritional value. However, the ability of food producers to use food safety practices to reduce potential pathogens and other hazards is also an important factor in the measurement. Additionally, the source and even brand of food can influence consumers' perceptions of product quality.
Consumer acceptance of food is often based on flavor, texture, color and smell.
Food safety standards
The International Organization for Standardization determines food safety management system requirements for food manufacturers through ISO 22000, including the processes and procedures that companies must follow to control hazards and promote safe products. U.S. federal and state agencies, particularly the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), are responsible for promoting public health by ensuring food safety. In the United States, food quality is enforced by the Food Safety Act, while the European Food Safety Authority provides scientific advice and communication on risks associated with the food chain.
For consumers, manufacturing and processing standards are very important references.
Standard formulation and evaluation
Many existing international quality agencies test food products to indicate to all consumers which products are of high quality. The International Mond's Choice Quality Award, established in 1961, is one of the oldest awards for assessing food quality. They are judged on taste, healthiness, convenience, labelling, packaging, environmental friendliness and innovation. Mond Select Institute takes European food law into account because many consumers rely on manufacturing and processing standards.
Food quality is closely related to traceability, including ingredient and packaging supplier information.
The importance of food labels
The law requires general food labels on food packaging. Food containers and packages should be labeled on the front label panel or primary display panel. According to the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004, eight food groups are recognized as "major food allergens", including milk, eggs, fish, crustacean seafood, nuts, wheat, peanuts and soybeans.
The USDA requires food labels to ensure the quality of food products.
Differences in food labels across countries
Different types of food labels have different guidelines, including dairy, beef, poultry, eggs, USDA organic products, fruits, vegetables and specialty crops. Food labeling in Sweden is regulated by the Swedish Food Agency (Livsmedelsverket) and follows EU guidelines. The EU's main regulation on food labeling is EU Regulation No. 1169/2011, which aims to provide food information to consumers.
Consumers and buyers expect assurance of product quality and integrity through standard shields, official seals and labels.
Conclusion
Although food safety standards may seem onerous, they are critical to ensuring consumers receive good quality food. The sensory characteristics of food, its origin and the validity of its labels all influence our choices. Therefore, behind these standards, can we truly understand the story and science behind each food?
