01-001-351 Me. Code R. § 9

Current through 2024-51, December 18, 2024

Section 001-351-9 - Processes and Controls

A. All operations in the receiving, inspecting, transporting, packaging, segregating, preparing, processing and scoring of ice shall be conducted in accord with adequate sanitation principles. Precautions shall be taken to assure that production procedures do not contribute contamination such as filth, harmful chemicals, undesirable microorganisms, or any other objectionable material to the finished product. Frozen unpackaged ice blocks intended for sale for human consumption or for the refrigeration of food products shall be washed thoroughly with potable water. Hands shall not come into direct contact with ice products at any time during manufacturing, processing, packaging and storage.

B. Ice manufactured for industrial purposes and defined as "industrial ice" shall be handled and stored separately from ice intended for human consumption.

C. Equipment shall be maintained in a sanitary condition through frequent cleaning including sanitization where indicated. Insofar as possible, equipment shall be taken apart for thorough cleaning.

D. Packaging processes or materials shall not transmit contaminants or objectionable substances to the product. Packaging materials shall be stored above the floor in a clean and dry location, and in such a manner chat they are protected from splash, dirt, or ocher contamination.

E. Chemical, microbiological or extraneous testing procedures shall be utilized where necessary to identify sanitation failures or food adulterants.

F. Manufacturers shall keep records and code products to enable them to identify specific lots affected by contamination or sanitation failure. All manufacturers and distributors of packaged ice shall maintain in writing a plan for the withdrawal or recall of problem ice.

G. Ice shall be stored and transported under conditions which will preclude all contamination and protect against deterioration of the product and the container.

H. Packaged ice must be tightly sealed and clearly labeled to show the name of the product, the net weight, the date code, and the name, address and zip code of the manufacturer or distributor. Staples are not permitted in the packaging of ice.

01-001 C.M.R. ch. 351, § 9