Hard surface disinfection even more crucial for dairy industry in light of coronavirus

23-Mar-2020 - Last updated on 23-Mar-2020 at 11:22 GMT

A hydrogen peroxide solution such as HuwaSan TR3 has proven viricial efficacy against encapsulated viruses.

Christeyns Food Hygiene, based in Warrington in the UK, which manufactures and install food, dairy and beverage hygiene solutions, is stressing the importance of reducing the risks of contamination from hard surfaces as combating coronavirus continues to be top priority throughout the food chain.

As Covid-19 cases in the UK are increasing and further research into the virus is conducted, evidence is emerging that infectivity on hard surfaces can remain for up to several days in the right conditions.

“In order to assist our customers, predominantly food and beverage manufacturers, in procedures regarding hard-surface cleaning and disinfection, we are ensuring that our team are on hand to offer product advice and suggestions,” Peter Littleton, technical director at Christeyns Food Hygiene, said.

Currently there have not been any specific tests against formulated products with regard to Covid-19, however research published in Medical News Today has indicated an oxidizing disinfectant is the most effective. The research demonstrates a solution of hypochlorite, peracetic acid (PAA) or hydrogen peroxide are particularly effective, as these solutions are greater than 60% alcohol.

Use of a hydrogen peroxide solution such as HuwaSan TR3 has proven viricial efficacy against encapsulated viruses, bacterial and fungicidal activity. Stabilized with ionic-silver, the solution is available in a ready-to-use trigger-spray format.

As it requires no rinsing, the product can also be used prior to the processing of organic approved products and no PPE is required. With a shelf life of up to two years, it can be kept on hand ready for any unexpected contamination.

Christeyns Food Hygiene said its personnel can assist customers with the implementation of any necessary controls, a risk assessment with regard to the use of chemicals needs to be carried out as a site responsibility, as normal.

It added that the rigorous reinforcement of personal hygiene standards is of the upmost importance, in particular the regular washing of hands using warm water and a good quality soap and where hand-washing facilities are not available then the application of an alcohol-based hand disinfectant is recommended.

Christeyns Food Hygiene said it will continue to monitor developments and will issue further guidance to its customers should the situation change, or new technologies become available.

You can hear an interview with Peter Littleton on this week's Dairy Dialog podcast, which will be available on Wednesday, March 25.