Transporting food-grade products in bulk requires strict discipline in hygiene, safety, regulations, and the use of proper equipment. These tankers are used to carry liquids such as milk, edible oils, syrups, juices, and other consumable products.
It is important to ensure it meets industry standards for quality assurance. In this article, we have discussed the intricacies of moving food-grade tanker loads.
The nature of food-grade tanker loads
Food grade tankers are generally made of perishable and sensitive materials. Unlike industrial and chemical tankers, food-grade tankers must be made of materials that ensure no contaminants, including the physical and chemical properties of the cargo.
Stainless steel is great for tanker construction, as it is corrosion-resistant and easy to clean. Insulated and temperature-controlled tankers are used to maintain the quality of the product. Some food products are highly susceptible to temperature changes that can spoil or degrade the product.
Safety and hygiene
Safety and hygiene are the most important factors in transporting food-grade products. Chemical, biological, or physical contamination can make a food product unsafe to eat. This is why tankers have to be cleaned and sanitized after every load.
In most cases, tankers are taken to certified food-grade wash stations to be cleaned and sanitized with hot water, steam, or food-safe cleaning agents. Tankers usually carry wash tickets to prove compliance with sanitation hygiene practices.
Logistics and temperature control
Many food-grade tankers carry perishables that must be delivered within specific timeframes for freshness and safety. Logistics departments depend on real-time GPS tracking for food-grade tanker shipments, as it shows the route of the tanker.
Additionally, for temperature-sensitive products such as dairy or chocolate, the tankers have temperature control features. For example, chilled milk demands a 40-degree temperature. Any temperature-related issues can result in spoilage or other changes in the product characteristics, rendering the cargo unusable.
Compliance with regulations
Transporting food-grade items involves compliance with national and international regulations. In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has established guidance documents related to the safe and sanitary transportation of food.
Transporters of food-grade tankers must maintain accurate records such as cleaning logs, cargo histories, and certificates of inspection. International shipments must adhere to similar global food safety standards, such as HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) and other established requirements under the auspices of the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI).
Importance of experienced personnel
The importance of having experienced personnel cannot be overstated. Drivers and handlers need training not only for safe driving but also for the unique requirements of food-grade cargo. They should also be trained in ways to minimize risk and be prepared for emergency response.
Experienced logistics managers are also needed. The managers are responsible for planning delivery routes, washouts, and scheduling deliveries.
Conclusion
Handling food-grade tanker loads is a careful, systematic process that requires a well-planned and executed level of coordination, attention to detail, and commitment to safety. As the demand for bulk food transportation continues to rise, companies must pay close attention to their operations and continue to uphold standards of excellence.