The FSMA Requirement (21 CFR ยง117.35(b)(2)): Cleaning compounds, sanitizers, and other toxic materials must be identified, held, and stored in a manner that protects against food contamination.
Recommended Solution & Expert-Level Pitfall:
- The Solution: Maintain a dedicated, locked chemical storage area. All chemicals, including those on sanitation carts, must be clearly labeled with their contents. Maintain a master list of all approved chemicals and have Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for each one accessible to employees. All food-grade lubricants must be stored separately from non-food-grade materials.
- The Pitfall to Avoid: “Satellite” containers. The most common violation is an employee-made, unlabeled spray bottle containing a sanitizer or degreaser. This is a massive chemical and allergen risk (e.g., using an unlabeled bottle that once held an allergen). Your program must include strict controls over chemical dilution and dispensing, and an audit process to find and remove all unlabeled containers.