The nature of the food service environment creates prime opportunities for surfaces without built-in antimicrobial protection to be contaminated by environmental microbes from human contact and food residues. Consumption patterns, re-use of items for multiple purposes, soiling, moisture, human contact and non-adherence to cleaning and sanitizing procedures can further exacerbate these conditions.
For these reasons, regulatory measures continue to be a focus and facility managers, chefs, and others within the hospitality and food service industries are seeking out methods to keep the products and equipment they use cleaner between cleanings. There are a number of measures to consider when working to control the contamination of food contact surfaces, ranging from handwashing to further sanitization of surfaces after they are washed. However, there can be lapses in these processes and added measures of antimicrobial protection beyond the control of the facility manager, resulting in conditions that support microbial growth on food contact surfaces.
Built-In Microban Antimicrobial Technology
The addition of built-in Microban® antimicrobial technology to food service supplies and equipment is an important step in a systems approach to cleaner food service surfaces. Incorporated during the manufacturing process, Microban antimicrobial product protection helps to inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew that can cause stains, odors and product degradation. Microban patented silver-based antimicrobial solution is registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States and is regulated by the Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) in Europe for direct for contact, and can be incorporated into a variety of materials, including ceramics and polymers. Once incorporated, Microban antimicrobial technology will not wash off or wear away, and it continues working for the useful life of the product. The presence of this added layer of antimicrobial protection to support existing regulations, procedures and protocols is valuable as the industry works toward the goal of cleaner food service products and equipment.
By incorporating Microban technology into hatchery consumables such as setter trays and hatcher baskets, Pas Reform Hatchery Technologies has created a unique and highly effective means of combating cross-contamination in modern hatcheries. Contact with the Microban treated polymer fatally disrupts the biological function of bacteria, to provide continuous protection between wash cycles.
Constellation™ dinnerware by Libbey Glass blends versatile style with functionality, durability and proactive performance. Constellation is the first-ever porcelain dinnerware with built-in Microban technology, exclusively available from Libbey. Microban technology provides 24/7 product protection and helps dining establishments confidently ensure a fresher dining experience. Microban technology is integrated into Constellation’s fully vitrified glaze for an additional layer of defense that will not wash or scratch off. This advanced silver-based technology creates an inhospitable environment for microbes, to prevent microbes from growing and reproducing on the surface of the dinnerware.
Great Dane is the leading manufacturer of high-performance commercial transportation equipment, including dry and refrigerated trailers and truck bodies, as well as steel, aluminum and combo platform trailers. Great Dane has a storied history in the commercial trucking industry and is a driving force in trailer technology, innovation, quality and partner service. Great Dane and Microban have partnered to provide Microban antimicrobial product protection exclusively in Great Dane's Everest reefers. The patented Microban technology is built into the Everest’s liners during the manufacturing process, resulting in antimicrobial protection for the life of the liner, measured using established international laboratory protocols. The benefits of Microban antimicrobial product protection include improved visible and invisible cleanliness, reduced odors and, ultimately, extended product life for Great Dane partners.
Under the brand names Micronware and Super Lock, the Thailand-based company JCP Plastic produces high quality, world-class products at affordable prices. The Super Lock food storage containers feature airtight sealing lids with snap-down buckles on all four sides. They also feature Microban antimicrobial protection to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and helped the container last longer.
Food Service Modernization Act
As standards for food service equipment and supplies continue to evolve, use of technology to meet or exceed protocols will be key, as evidenced by the recent enactment of the Food Service Modernization Act. Suppliers and manufacturers at various stages along the food service supply chain are taking advantage of the opportunity to make cleaner products through the incorporation of Microban antimicrobial technology.
To learn more about Microban antimicrobial technology for the food service industry, contact us today. To learn more about cleanliness challenges in the food service industry and how Microban antimicrobial technology can help, check out our “Reasons to Integrate Antimicrobials in Food Service Products and Equipment” white paper.
