Classic
Are REA’s plastic shelving units manufactured in accordance with HACCP guidelines?
Hygienic storage for food safety
In sectors that handle food, everything revolves around hygiene and food safety. Whether it’s a professional kitchen, a production area or a storage environment: every link in the process must be right. The layout of these spaces also plays a key role in this. Storage systems must not be a source of contamination or infection.
REA’s plastic racking systems have been developed with precisely this in mind. They are designed for environments where working hygienically is not merely a preference, but a requirement.
What are HACCP guidelines?
HACCP is a system that enables businesses to analyse and control food safety risks. The acronym stands for Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points. This methodology is used worldwide to ensure food safety in production, storage and preparation processes.
HACCP is not just about what happens to food, but also about the environment in which this takes place. Storage areas form an important part of this. Materials and storage systems must be hygienic, easy to clean and resistant to conditions such as moisture and temperature fluctuations.
That is why plastic racking is often used in areas where food is stored or processed. The material meets the HACCP requirements for cleanability and hygiene better than many traditional alternatives. Racking and other storage systems can also be fitted with castors without compromising hygiene standards.
What requirements does HACCP impose on storage and storage systems?
HACCP sets out clear requirements for storage and layout. Storage systems must:
- be clean and well-organised
- be easy to clean
- be resistant to moisture and corrosion
- pose no risk of food contamination
In practical terms, this means that surfaces must be smooth and must not trap dirt. Cracks, seams or joints where dirt can accumulate pose a risk. Materials must also be able to withstand intensive cleaning and varying conditions, such as low temperatures in cold stores.
A storage system that does not meet these requirements can become a weak link in the overall food safety process.
Why are hygienic storage systems important within HACCP?
Proper storage prevents problems that often only become apparent when it is too late. Examples include cross-contamination, the build-up of dirt or bacterial growth.
When materials are difficult to clean, dirt remains for longer. This increases the likelihood of bacteria adhering to surfaces and spreading. In environments where food is processed or stored, this can have a direct impact on the quality and safety of products.
A hygienic storage system therefore not only contributes to a tidy workplace, but is also part of managing food safety risks.
Which materials are suitable for HACCP environments?
Materials used in HACCP environments must, above all, fulfil one key requirement in practice: they must not pose a risk.
This means that they:
- do not corrode
- do not absorb moisture
- are easy to clean
- do not trap dirt
Plastic fits the bill perfectly. Unlike materials that can rust or to which dirt adheres more easily, plastic remains stable in damp conditions. Furthermore, a smooth plastic surface is easy to clean, often without the need for harsh cleaning agents.
That is why plastic storage systems are commonly found in areas where food safety is paramount.
REA’s plastic HACCP shelving
REA’s plastic shelving is constructed from materials specifically selected for hygienic applications. The surface is smooth and the components fit together securely. This means that dirt, mould and bacteria have little chance of becoming trapped, not even in the edges or joints.
Ideally suited for use in cold stores
As the material does not absorb moisture and does not corrode, it remains suitable for use in damp environments such as cold stores. The racking can withstand temperatures ranging from approximately -40 to +40 degrees without this affecting its service life. This makes it highly versatile, from refrigerated storage to warmer working environments.
Cleaning is a piece of cake
Cleaning is straightforward. In practice, soapy water combined with a sponge or damp cloth is sufficient. No harsh chemicals or high-pressure cleaning are required to keep the system clean.
Maximum load capacity of a racking unit
As well as hygiene, load-bearing capacity is also a key factor. The racking units are designed for professional use and can handle a high load capacity, up to approximately 200 kg per linear metre. This makes them suitable for storing a wide variety of products without compromising on stability.
Applications of HACCP racking
Plastic racking is used in sectors where food safety and hygiene are paramount. Examples include:
- the hospitality industry and professional kitchens
- food processing and production environments
- healthcare facilities
- laboratories
Within these sectors, you’ll find them in areas such as cold stores, ingredient storage rooms and production kitchens. It is precisely in these areas that it is important for materials to be resistant to moisture, temperature fluctuations and frequent cleaning.
For organisations operating in accordance with HACCP, choosing the right storage system is not a minor detail, but a logical step within the overall process.
Plastic shelving units available in three colours
REA’s shelving units are available in three unique colours: classic, design and grey!
Design
Grey
REA’s plastic racking systems
REA’s plastic storage systems have been developed for environments where hygiene is paramount. Thanks to their combination of smooth surfaces, ease of cleaning and resistance to moisture and temperature fluctuations, they meet the requirements set out by HACCP.
They are therefore suitable for sectors where food safety and ease of cleaning are key considerations.
Would you like to find out more about the various systems and applications? Then take a look at the page on plastic racking.
