ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the basics of federal regulations covering sanitation and sanitary operations. It is recommended that United States Department of Agriculture plants use the information provided in the Sanitation Performance Standards to develop plant food safety systems and sanitation procedures to ensure sanitary conditions, prevent adulteration of product, and meet regulatory requirements. Current Good Manufacturing Practices also require that plants address allergen cross-contact and include provisions for holding and distribution of human food by-products that will be used for animal food. The grounds about an establishment must be maintained to prevent conditions that could lead to insanitary conditions, adulteration of product, or interference with inspection by Food Safety and Inspection Service personnel. Cleaning and sanitizing of utensils and equipment shall be conducted in a manner that protects against contamination of food, food-contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials.
