Oman Logistics Center issues guidelines on safe storage of foodstuff
Published: 06:07 PM,Jul 12,2024 | EDITED : 10:07 PM,Jul 12,2024
The new guide outlines standards and specs governing safe storage of foodstuff in warehouses.
MUSCAT: Preserving the quality of foodstuff held in storage is the overarching goal behind a new guide launched recently by the Oman Logistics Center – part of the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology (MTCIT).
The launch of the ‘Unified Guide for Warehouse Standards and Requirements,’ developed in collaboration with the MTCIT, marks a significant milestone in warehouse management across the country. This comprehensive guide outlines key health requirements and best practices for the storage of canned and dry food items – an important perquisite strengthening food security as well.
Dry storage facilities play a crucial role in preserving non-perishable food items, encompassing all foods requiring refrigerated or frozen conditions as specified on their labels. Ensuring proper storage is essential to maintaining food quality and safety.
First and foremost, storage facilities must be constructed from permanent, durable materials. Maintaining a dry, non-humid environment is imperative to prevent any adverse effects on stored food items. Food should be stored on tables or shelves at least 30 centimeters above ground level, facilitating easy cleaning and minimizing contamination risks.
Efficient organization is key. Tables and shelves should be arranged in neat rows, with adequate space left between them and the walls to ease the movement of food items. It is also vital to organize food according to their expiration dates, ensuring older stock is used first to minimize waste.
The flooring of storage areas must be covered with easy-to-clean tiles or other approved materials. Walls and ceilings should be painted in light colors, which not only brighten the space but also help in identifying cleanliness and pest infestations more easily.
External doors of storage facilities should be self-closing, open outward, and be fitted with fine mesh screens to prevent pest entry. Comprehensive pest and rodent control measures are essential. Any use of insecticides must be pre-approved by the local municipality to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
To maintain an optimal storage environment, facilities should be equipped with adequate air conditioning units to keep temperatures below 25°C. Cold air distribution units should ensure even cooling throughout the storage area. Additionally, thermometers must be placed in convenient locations to allow for easy monitoring of temperature levels.
A designated area or separate room should be provided for expired, damaged, or returned food items. These should be disposed of weekly by burying them in designated municipal areas. Keeping a detailed record of disposed food items is essential for accountability and regulatory compliance.
By adhering to these comprehensive standards, storage facilities can ensure the safe and efficient storage of food, contributing to the overall goal of enhancing food security in Oman.
The launch of the ‘Unified Guide for Warehouse Standards and Requirements,’ developed in collaboration with the MTCIT, marks a significant milestone in warehouse management across the country. This comprehensive guide outlines key health requirements and best practices for the storage of canned and dry food items – an important perquisite strengthening food security as well.
Dry storage facilities play a crucial role in preserving non-perishable food items, encompassing all foods requiring refrigerated or frozen conditions as specified on their labels. Ensuring proper storage is essential to maintaining food quality and safety.
First and foremost, storage facilities must be constructed from permanent, durable materials. Maintaining a dry, non-humid environment is imperative to prevent any adverse effects on stored food items. Food should be stored on tables or shelves at least 30 centimeters above ground level, facilitating easy cleaning and minimizing contamination risks.
Efficient organization is key. Tables and shelves should be arranged in neat rows, with adequate space left between them and the walls to ease the movement of food items. It is also vital to organize food according to their expiration dates, ensuring older stock is used first to minimize waste.
The flooring of storage areas must be covered with easy-to-clean tiles or other approved materials. Walls and ceilings should be painted in light colors, which not only brighten the space but also help in identifying cleanliness and pest infestations more easily.
External doors of storage facilities should be self-closing, open outward, and be fitted with fine mesh screens to prevent pest entry. Comprehensive pest and rodent control measures are essential. Any use of insecticides must be pre-approved by the local municipality to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
To maintain an optimal storage environment, facilities should be equipped with adequate air conditioning units to keep temperatures below 25°C. Cold air distribution units should ensure even cooling throughout the storage area. Additionally, thermometers must be placed in convenient locations to allow for easy monitoring of temperature levels.
A designated area or separate room should be provided for expired, damaged, or returned food items. These should be disposed of weekly by burying them in designated municipal areas. Keeping a detailed record of disposed food items is essential for accountability and regulatory compliance.
By adhering to these comprehensive standards, storage facilities can ensure the safe and efficient storage of food, contributing to the overall goal of enhancing food security in Oman.