Mitigating physical hazards in food processing: Risk assessment and preventive strategies

Physical contaminants in food, such as glass, metal, and plastic, can cause significant health risks and economic loss. This study explores these understudied physical hazards, aiming to provide comprehensive risk analysis and preventive solutions. Our research identified several key infiltration points in the food supply chain, including raw material sourcing and packaging stages. These hazards can be effectively mitigated by employing advanced technologies like metal detectors and optical sorting machines, along with stringent quality control measures. The findings offer valuable insights for stakeholders in the food industry, emphasizing the need for regulatory compliance and consumer education to ensure food safety.