If you manage a food supplier business that needs cold storage services, you should adhere to storage regulations. Violations can have several consequences that may cause significant fines from local and government organizations.

The Effects of Poorly Stored Food

1. Avoid Fines

Without correct storage, perishables can become infected with bacteria. Insects and rodents are always seeking food, and they’ll contaminate goods with feces and germs. Since customers may react negatively to contaminated food, you may face fines and be shut down if repeat violations occur.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and Food Safety and Inspection Service will prosecute severe violations as misdemeanors or felonies. Warehouses and cold storage facilities may face criminal prosecution, and food products may be seized or recalled.

2. Prevent Food Poisoning

The quality of foods can alter when they aren’t kept at proper temperatures. Forty to 140 degrees Fahrenheit is known as the danger zone, and perishable foods stored in this range can grow harmful bacteria. There are over 250 germs, bacteria, and parasites that cause food-borne illnesses. These include Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, Norovirus, and E. coli.

When consumed, these bacteria cause food poisoning, an issue one in 6 Americans experience each year. These bacteria can also cause severe infections, respiratory failure, dehydration, and ulcers. They’re especially prominent with beef, poultry, and dairy, which is why these need to be handled carefully in cold storage.

3. Deter Mold Growth

This substance can quickly spread to adjacent foods and completely ruin the inventory. In addition to the financial losses from trashing moldy goods, you’ll have to carefully clean the entire storage area to eliminate remaining spores.

Avoid food storage issues by keeping them in a cold storage unit at Unicold Corporation in Honolulu, HI. Since 1962, these professionals have provided Oahu businesses with temperature-controlled refrigeration and warehousing at affordable prices. Learn more about their services online, or call (808) 836-2931 to speak with a specialist about your company’s cold storage needs.