Electrolux Professional has announced it has become the first - and is currently the only - HACCP International Certified laundry manufacturer.
The International Certification is set to have a strong impact on the restaurant, hotel, food processing and manufacturing industries as businesses are now able to guarantee bacteria control and food safety to their customers, when looking to bring laundry in-house.
HACCP International Certification is only awarded to equipment and materials that demonstrates it meets stringent food safety standards after a comprehensive evaluation by a team of assessors.
In the food industry, contamination through laundry is indirect but parts such as nuts, bolts and springs can enter food with serious consequences. Additionally, laundry programs are also essential and it needs to be easy to set a disinfectant wash. The servicing and user guides are scrutinised throughout the assessment process and there needs to be absolute clarity of operation, so there is no ambiguity.
Developed through analysis of the needs and challenges of laundry operators across the globe, the Electrolux Line 5000 has been honoured under the International Certification, including high spin, super spin and normal spin washers, alongside the latest barrier washing and ironing and fitting innovations.
Richard Mallett, Managing Director of HACCP Europe commented: “The Certification Electrolux has been awarded is usually reserved for food service equipment only so is a milestone development for the manufacturer and re-affirms the crucial role laundry equipment can play in contamination control, playing its part in preventing outbreaks and illness across the globe.
“The robust design and clear instructions within the Line 5000 ensure that nothing can go unsanitised and restaurants can make a quick and smart investment with ease.
“Traditionally food manufacturing factories have had to outsource their laundry to guarantee cleanliness but the certification of the Electrolux Line 5000 range has provided the option to invest in an on premises laundry with complete peace of mind.”
Darren Lockley, Head of Region for UK & Ireland for Electrolux Professional, comments: “Food poisoning is a major health problem around the globe and as much of the emphasis needs to be on the kitchen and food preparation, the laundering of cleaning cloths and uniforms also has a major role to play.
"We’ve developed the Line 5000 to improve flexibility in the laundry process through fast operation, intuitive interfaces, top hygiene levels and easy operation for high reliability. This type of equipment is essential in heavy duty environments such as an in-house laundry in a restaurant or food processing factory, where quick and constant turnaround of linen is essential.
“It’s great that this innovation has been recognised through this landmark certification and although naturally, it lends itself immediately towards the food processing industry, it also has great relevance for HORECA outlets and care facilities, too - amongst other sectors.”