Handle with care

We examine the cleaning products prioritising sustainability, alongside essential guidance for fridge maintenance and food storage.

It is a priority for businesses in the food to go (FTG) market to be thorough with hygiene practices, while also considering sustainability. From disinfecting surfaces to the correct preparation, cooking and storage of produce, a safe working environment ensures the best-quality fare for the consumer. Additionally, from a reputational standpoint, an unhygienic black mark on a company name is bad news.

Bio Solutions Group Ltd is a collective of earth-friendly businesses that actively strive to leave the world in a better place than when they found it. So, there was no one better to discuss this vital topic than its founder, and director of Bioshield Systems, Brent Stansfield.

“Despite the importance, many in the food industry don’t believe it is as clean and safe as it should be. A few years ago, we conducted some in-house research amongst food industry professionals, and 88% concluded that the way we handle, manufacture and transport food isn’t safe enough.

“It’s food for thought for the FTG market – and highlights the fact that for many operators, there are probably several processes and areas of the cleaning process that could be improved!”

Being Proactive

The consequences of not maintaining the highest hygiene standards are stark. “It can have serious implications – from a financial, safety and reputational perspective,” continued Stansfield.

“It’s also incredibly difficult to regain the trust of customers after your business has been deemed officially unhygienic by a trusted organisation – so it’s always best to be one step ahead by continually prioritising hygiene and cleanliness. This can also help to minimise hazards such as cross-contamination, which can cause illnesses like food poisoning. Cross-contamination can also increase the risk of customers suffering from serious allergic reactions, which can be life-threatening,” said Stansfield.

is manufactured from waste oranges – so not only is it natural, but it’s ensuring that our natural resources are being used to their full potential,” said Stansfield. “It’s part of a circular economy – reducing waste and the need to gather new resources for manufacturing. It’s an easy choice for any outlet that is committed to sustainable change.”

Bioshield is an award-winning biotechnology business that provides purpose-designed, 100% natural and chemical-free antibacterial and food-safe preventative and protective solutions for the retail, food supply chain and environmental sectors.

Zero Compromise

In today’s foodservice marketplace, cleaning products with improved sustainability credentials are commonplace. Naturally derived and plant-based products deliver effective cleaning performance, while also being kind to the environment.

“Our food-safe sanitising solution

Another major player in the cleaning sector is Biovate Hygienics, a manufacturer of sustainable and carbon neutral cleaning products. Co-founder and MD, Nick Winstone, is clear in his purpose. “It’s vitally important that you look closely at your environmental footprint when cleaning. As an example, if I was cleaning in a sandwich bar or other FTG establishment, I would want to use a biologically based product that I know would break down from an environmental perspective and leave nothing behind. This is just one instance of showing a commitment to reducing your environmental and carbon footprint where at all possible.”

A new generation of eco-friendly products is now readily available. So many chemicals are used in cleaning products that can be harmful to wildlife and human health, it appears to be a ‘natural’ progression. Just last month, a German tech start-up called intelligent fluids raised €10 million for its eco-friendly commercial cleaning products.

“Microbes, enzymes and naturally derived plant extracts can get deep into porous surfaces to quickly break down and feed on stubborn grime, dirt and grease,” continued Winstone. “Unlike traditional chemical products, the biotech-based formulas are made from sustainable, renewable ingredients that slash carbon emissions, are kinder to users and don’t harm our aquatic ecosystems. Some of the most challenging odours in a catering operation can be combatted with biotechnology. Smells emanating from grease traps, pipes, drains, urinals and refuse areas can all be eliminated by treating with bacteria-based products.”

This commitment is illustrated by the groundbreaking launch of one of the world’s first plastic-free paper bottles for commercial cleaning products. They are multitasking, taking care of 99% of cleaning, while using naturally derived bacteria, enzymes and plant-based actives. The ‘Zero Compromise’ range features 500ml ultra concentrates of floor and wall degreasers and washroom and multipurpose cleaners.

“Our plastic-free bottle is made in the UK using sustainably sourced vegetable waste fibre paper pulp. This makes the bottle not only plastic free, but also created using materials that would otherwise be discarded,” said Winstone. “This sustainable sourcing