Verification of prerequisite programs implemented in a honey extraction establishment: A case study

Abstract

The implementation of a management system based on Prerequisite Programs (PRPs) provides the basic environmental and operational conditions that are necessary for the production of safe and healthy food. The objective of this study was to verify the PRPs implemented in a honey extraction establishment. The work was carried out in an establishment located in Tandil (Buenos Aires, Argentina) during the honey harvest period (January to March). To collect information on the level of compliance with the PRPs, a checklist was developed. Microbiological indicators were also used to analyze honey samples (n = 80) and food contact surfaces (uncapping machine, honey and wax separator machine, draining table, honey extractor, collection container and hoses). Honey samples were analyzed to determine molds and yeasts, total coliforms and Salmonella spp.; while on food contact surfaces, mesophilic aerobic bacteria, molds and yeasts were determined. The checklist was divided into seven blocks containing 35 requirements, with 83% compliance being observed. The results showed that the main non-compliances were related to written programs and records. In addition, it was observed that the flow diagram and the description of the honey extraction process were incomplete. However, the microbiological indicators showed that the performance of the implemented PRPs was acceptable. Only one of the honey samples analyzed did not meet the microbiological requirements established in current Argentine legislation. Most of the food contact surfaces analyzed presented microbial loads below 10 CFU/cm2. The verification of compliance with the PRPs is a useful tool to identify aspects that can be improved in the management systems implemented in food establishments. Finally, this study recommends the use of the checklist as a support tool to diagnose the degree of compliance with the established requirements, which could be adopted by other establishments.