What Alvindman stated is what I was asking. SQF requires us to be able to trace the product; packaging; ingredients and processing aids. Filters do not fall into any of these categories but they come in direct contact with the food and they are changed at least once per week.
I guess having a certificate of conformance as mentioned by QAGB is the best way to go.
Thank you!
Hi TGM,
Thanks for yr information that the context is SQF Food Standard.
In view of yr concern over the mesh filter "traceability" I suggest two options –
(1) Include the Mesh Filter “Maintenance” within SQF Prerequisite Programs as per Para.11.2.9.1 (or perhaps 11.2.12.1). This would allow inclusion of yr specific requirement to fully document any changes of filter and simultaneously avoid possible confusion over the terminology “traceability” (“trace”) as elsewhere used in the SQF Standard.
(2) If you consider the step where food is in contact with the mesh filter as being a significant process hazard, it should of course be included as a CCP as per my post 3. This would, I guess, be handled via Sec. 2.4.3.1.
You could include a “box” requiring insertion of the filter code in the Record form for routine monitoring of the filter condition. Additionally, you could, if felt necessary, add a 2nd Form to specifically Record changes in the Filter, to be counter-signed by the maintenance engineer. This would again avoid possible “traceability” terminology confusions.