Microbiology and food hygiene in mass catering

Serious consequences can arise from lack of hygiene in mass catering. The uncritical use of routine microbiological tests purporting to measure hygiene merely creates a false sense of security. The microbiological safety of food is achieved by as far as possible ensuring the absence of pathogenic microorganisms and by all means preventing their multiplication. The Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point concept is used to identify microbiologically vulnerable points in the food production process and to determine the most appropriate methods of control to be applied, usually such methods as improved handling techniques, monitoring of temperature and more intensive supervision. Microbiological testing is of value in the initial analysis, at appropriate intervals for verifying the effectiveness of control measures, and in demonstrating to food handlers the reality of the microbial risk if good hygienic standards are not maintained.