Pre-harvest food risks: how can they be managed Flashcards
What is risk management targeted at?
Interrupting, preventing or eliminating transmission pathways identified in the risk assessment
What does risk management include?
Identifying the most cost effective option
Implementing the option
Monitoring and follow-up
What are the different categories of risk management strategies and what do they mean?
Transfer - get insurance
Avoidance - avoid hazards - but may have lost oppertunities
Mitigation/Reduction - reduce negative consequences
Acceptance - accepting a level of risk
What are purchase policies?
Quality standards from within the production chain e.g. animal health certificates, feed quality certificates
Other than purchase policies, what strategies can be used by primary producers?
Biosecurity
Good standard of husbandry
Good standard of hygiene
What general aspects of on-farm management may need to be applied as part of a risk management strategy?
Staff info/training Health status of staff Maintanance/cleaning Pest and waste management Monitoring of production
How can the risks associated with feed be managed?
On-farm production
- Fertilisers and other chemicals
- Pasture hygiene
Bought products
- Known source
- Keep records/reciepts
Storage - store cleanly and away from pests
How can the risks associated with water be managed?
Fence off poluted water
Protect from contamination
Monitor any off farm sources of water
How can the risks associated with feed be managed?
Withdrawal periods (records!) Storage and disposal
What are the problems associated with not oberving withdrawal periods?
Resistance
Allergies
Cheese industry
For what hazards are statutory management programs in place?
TB
BSE
Salmonella
Why is traceability of animal products important?
It can help identify sources of outbreaks and prevent them occurring in the future
What things should be done at slaughter to reduce food safety risks?
Avoid stress - pathogen shedding Prevent animal soiling Assure animal fit for slaughter Assure animal fit for transport Assure animal identification
What does ‘food chain information’ involve?
Information on the: producer health status of animals on the farm treatments veterinarian
Are quality assurance schemes mandatory?
No - for the benefit of the consumer but not compulsory
