In the event that a food allergen cross contact has occurred, it is very important to determine the cause of the cross contact, so that improved control strategies can be established. Here is a list of steps to take when a cross contact occurs.
1. Examine ingredient control program, increase ingredient testing frequency to ensure control
2. Break down and inspect equipment
3. Thoroughly clean and sanitize all equipment, surfaces, and tools in area
4. Resample areas where allergens are found
5. Re-clean, re-sanitize, and resample as needed
6. If allergens persist implement corrective actions

Corrective Actions

• Limit access to area
• Break down and inspect equipment in area
• Resample positive area and surroundings to determine if contamination is localized or spread
• Clean and sanitize all equipment, surfaces, and tools in area
• Conduct pre-operational inspection and resample
• Do not restart operations until all tests are negative
• Document corrective actions and consider SOP to prevent reoccurrence
• Increase frequency of sampling from weekly to daily
• After 3 consecutive days of negative results normal sampling may resume
• If problem persists, consider removal of contaminated equipment and replace or redesign

Routine Preventive Measures

• Control sources of ingredients, water, and air with robust testing programs
• Repair structural damage and eliminate cracks and crevices that can harbor allergens
• Review and monitor GMPs
• Review and monitor SSOPs
• Audit production and maintenance practices
• Reinforce proper employee hygiene practices

Please contact us to learn more about how we can help you with your Food and Dietary Supplement Allergen Environmental Monitoring Plan. To help you ensure regulatory compliance and eliminate product recalls, we provide customized strategic environmental monitoring plans, certification programs, audits, nutritional labeling expertise, and testing services that will help you protect your brands.