Can’t Stand the Heat, Get Out the TTIs

TTIs fulfill the requirements of the recent FDA Import Alert 16-125, which details the requirements for special packaging used to extend the shelf life of fresh seafood. TTIs are utilized to approximate the time-temperature limits that could compromise the quality of fresh seafood distributed in reduced oxygen packaging (ROP). The TTIs are formulated according to the FDA predictive curve, called the Skinner-Larkin curve. This model depicts anaerobic bacteria growth in seafood over a range of times and temperatures. The progressive color changes in the selected TTIs indicate limits for shelf life and possible abuses. The results comply with regulations, meet buyer demands and protect consumers.

The growing importance of food quality is reflected in the increase in corresponding government recommendations. The USDA and FDA addressed this issue through the establishment of HACCPplans.

To meet these recommendations, food manufacturers establish these critical control points along the production and distributions lines. At each point, specific factors are measured and must be controlled within certain limits. Due to their effect on food deterioration, time and temperature are often evaluated factors. Cold chain integrity must be ensured at these points. Time-temperature monitoring throughout the distribution process is crucial in meeting HACCP standards.

The government is not the only entity putting food qualityhigh on the priority list.. Consumers are becoming more educated and are demanding that products meet higher quality standards. To satisfy consumers, retailers are placing more pressure on distributors and producers to ensure cold chain integrity.

Distributors are also faced with a changing infrastructure environment. Food processing and distribution plants are becoming smaller in number and larger in size. This creates longer distribution channels and a greater need for temperature control over lengthy periods.

The saturation of the food products industry is another factor highlighting the need to monitor temperature variations. With decreasing profit margins and heavy competition, food processors must differentiate their products. Reassuring consumers and retailers of controlled temperature storage can lead to market leadership.

Because of these issues, the food industry is increasing its focus on the relationship between time and temperature and food quality. Food companies must enhance temperature control through the entire supply chain. Therefore, it is time for the integrity of the cold chain to be demonstrated in a way that is easily discernable to retailers and consumers.

Summary

It is common knowledge that temperature abuse can cause perishable product quality issues. Increased focus on the link between temperature and food quality is calling for greater vigilance along the entire distribution line. The trend has been toward heightened government and consumer interest in food quality issues. The pressure is on food industry players to manage the integrity of the cold chain from beginning to end.

Time temperature indicators can effectively serve this purpose by helping to confirm appropriate storage temperatures. A result of the advances in temperature-monitoring technology, TTIs will become a crucial tactic in the battle to maintain quality products.

Hartman is business development director, Industrial Products Division for Avery Dennison. Reach him at 440-878-7274 or [email protected].