Summary

The Project will develop a Food Safety Program specific to the Australian seaweed processing industry for the human consumption of seaweed. This Program will meet market and consumer food safety standards and requirements.
This will be achieved by initially undertaking a literature review and a review of current regulation to identify potential food safety hazards for the seaweed species currently under commercial production within Australia, as well as any regulatory requirements. This will be the primary input into the food safety risk assessments within the Food Safety Program documentation developed.
Field assessments will be undertaken of current seaweed transport, delivery and processing steps in order to develop a process flow chart of current manufacturing practices. This process flow chart will be used to assess hazards and establish control measures within the Food Safety Program documentation.
The Food Safety Program documentation will include worked examples of HACCP plans and blank templates (HACCP team, product description, flow chart, food safety risk assessment, HACCP plan, Verification Schedule and Validation table). These documents will provide the basis of a readily adoptable program for seaweed processors to implement. It will also provide guidance to regulators in terms of regulating risks in the processing of seaweed for human consumption.
The Project will develop additional documentation (procedures and forms) that are required to obtain other third-party HACCP certification, such as SGS HACCP certification. This additional documentation will include generic versions of the following:
• Quality Policy.
• Product specifications.
• Approved Supplier List.
• List of calibrate-able equipment.
• Forms for: product and process monitoring, cleaning, corrective action investigation, internal audits & staff training.
• Procedures for: Corrective action, approved suppliers, document control, product traceability, product recall, staff training, internal audits, product and plant testing, equipment calibration, pest control, cleaning and good hygienic practices.
All draft documents will be reviewed against current industry practices and by current industry stakeholders for currency and practicality.

Program

New and Emerging Industries

Research Organisation

Integrity Compliance Solutions

Objective Summary

Undertake a literature review and a review of current regulation to identify potential food safety hazards for the seaweed species currently under commercial production within Australia, as well as any regulatory requirements. Conduct field assessment of transport, delivery and processing of seaweed. Consult industry expertise to confirm processes and identify risks. Seek independent peer review by technical expert prior to engaging stakeholders to review and approve draft food safety program.