9 replies to this topic

[Dharmadi Sadeli Putra]

Hi everyone,
My plant operates steam still retorts for canned foods. For set up retort validation schedule, i need any references about how often heat distribution test needed to be conducted. Anyone can help me,please
Thank you

[Scampi]

validation (i.e. it is capable of achieving sterility)  or verification i.e. it's operating as it should to achieve sterility?

 

can you clarify please

[Dharmadi Sadeli Putra]

Retort Validation by Heat distribution test. I am looking some references/ regulation about the frequency to do this test. Usually auditor ask it.

[Tony-C]

Hi Dharmadi Sadeli Putra,

 

Most people would re-validate at least annually. You are also doing regular calibration checks?

 

Kind regards,

Tony

[Dharmadi Sadeli Putra]

Hi Tony-C
Is there any regulation or reference how often do we need to re-validate?
Kind regards
Dharmadi

[Scampi]

The regulation / reference will come from simple HACCP and best practice

 

In order to ensure your process step is still capable of controlling the hazards, you should revalidate at least annually as part of Principal 6

 

you will not find a regulation (unless it's from your government regulatory body) but given the risks if your process is inadequate, annually should be your benchmark

[chrcia]

Heat distribution test need to be validated by your process authority when you change a recipe, change any of the critical factors of your approved process.Also potential;ly if you changed vendors who you purchase products from. I would recommend any changes send an email to your process authority and they should be able to make that determination. 

[AndrewTG]

You are unlikely to find a definitive answer as to the frequency of retort validation. However, if there have been no other changes to critical factors, engineering changes to the equipment or the packaging, in my experience a frequency of two years has been typical. Of course, calibration requirements of critical instruments is much more stringent in retorting, typically 6-monthly.

 

It is also important to distinguish heat distribution and temperature distribution, as they are not the same. You may have already taken this into account, but ithey are very commonly confused.

[Dharmadi Sadeli Putra]

The regulation / reference will come from simple HACCP and best practice
 
In order to ensure your process step is still capable of controlling the hazards, you should revalidate at least annually as part of Principal 6
 
you will not find a regulation (unless it's from your government regulatory body) but given the risks if your process is inadequate, annually should be your benchmark

Noted and thanks

[Charles.C]

There may also be a specific requirement from your customer. Especially if in a different geographical location (?).