HYGIENIC
REA's plastic storage systems are designed in accordance with HACCP guidelines to prevent the growth of mould and bacteria.
Can plastic cause odour or taste transfer?
Plastic is widely used in the food industry, from shelving to tray trolleys. Yet many companies wonder: can plastic cause odour or taste transfer? In this article, you can read exactly how this works, in which situations this risk occurs and what REA products can do for you in your situation.
CORROSION-FREE
REA products are completely resistant to moisture and temperature fluctuations.
ROCK SOLID
The unique design prevents wear and tear and makes the racks practically indestructible.
EXCEPTIONAL LOAD-BEARING CAPACITY
REA racks can easily handle loads of 200 kg per linear metre.
MODULAR
REA racks can be assembled and expanded in a modular system without the need for any special tools.
EXTREME TEMPERATURES
The products can be used in spaces at temperatures ranging from -40 to +80 degrees, without any loss of quality.
100% RECYCLABLE
During production, residual waste is kept to a minimum and the plastic racks are 100% recyclable.
In what situations can plastic impart odour or taste?
Not all plastics are the same. The composition of the material, the processing and the conditions in which plastic is used determine whether odour or taste transfer can occur.
In general, plastic does not react, but prolonged contact with food or exposure to heat, cleaning agents or wear and tear can cause the material to release substances that affect the smell or taste.
Food storage
During prolonged storage, especially of products with strong aromas or fats, certain types of plastics can absorb these and allow the aromas or fats to penetrate the material. This occurs particularly with porous or damaged surfaces.
When the plastic later comes into contact with food, for example, residual odours may be released. It is therefore important to work with closed, smooth materials that do not flake or contain cracks in which odours can accumulate.
What does legislation say about plastics in contact with food?
Within the food processing industry, strict regulations apply to ensure a hygienic environment. It is essential to prevent the accumulation of bacteria and fungi, as well as any transfer of odors or flavors.
All these regulations are established in European legislation, as well as in the HACCP guidelines.
HACCP guidelines and food safety
According to the HACCP guidelines, every material is expected to pose no risk to food safety. Plastic components that come into contact with food must therefore withstand cleaning, disinfection, and temperature fluctuations without releasing any substances.
The use of high-quality plastics that meet HACCP requirements is therefore a fundamental prerequisite in any production environment.
How REA prevents odor or taste transfer
REA develops and produces plastic storage systems specifically designed for environments where hygiene and food safety are paramount. Through the careful selection of materials (virgin PVC) and a well-thought-out design, odor and taste transfer are effectively prevented.
Smooth surfaces
REA’s plastic storage systems feature smooth surfaces that prevent bacteria and fungi from adhering to the material. Thanks to this smooth finish, containers, pallets, and racks remain easy to clean, even under intensive use.
Clean and seamless design
Gaps, seams, and welds are areas where bacteria and odor particles can accumulate. REA’s systems use mechanical joints, eliminating the need for screws or bolts. The seamless connections ensure that bacteria and mold cannot remain hidden behind edges or joints.
REA storage systems are available in three colors
Conclusion: The safe solution against odor and taste transfer
At REA, hygiene, safety, and reliability come first. Our plastic solutions are specifically developed for production environments where there is no room for risks related to odor or taste transfer. Thanks to their smooth surfaces, seamless design, and use of high-quality raw materials, the products remain clean, wear-resistant, and easy to maintain for many years.
Why choose REA?
Companies in the food industry choose REA because they want certainty, certainty that their materials meet the strictest food safety standards, that cleaning can be done quickly and thoroughly, and that every component contributes to a controlled and efficient process.
Are you looking for a storage system that complies with HACCP guidelines and is built to last a lifetime? Explore all our products to discover the right solution for your application.