Easy Plate : Mold Control in Food Manufacturing: Air and Water Are Crucial “Sub-Ingredients”

June 11, 2025

Managing Utilities in Food Hygiene – Air & Water as Critical Control Points

Incidents like the March 2024 red yeast rice recall have emphasized the need for stronger hygiene control in food production. Mold contamination from environmental sources — especially air and water — can lead to serious health risks, product recalls, and damage to brand trust.

In modern food safety systems, utilities like air and water are considered “silent contributors” to microbial contamination. Their cleanliness is essential for maintaining safe, high-quality products.

🔍 The Problem

• Mold spores from unfiltered or poorly maintained air systems

• Condensation dripping from ceilings, ducts, or pipes

• Inadequate monitoring of airborne or surface microbial contamination

📘 Global Standards

• Codex GHP: Ventilation systems must minimize airborne contamination

• FDA cGMP (21 CFR 117): Utilities must be maintained to prevent cross-contamination

• ISO 22000 / HACCP: Utility monitoring is required under PRPs (Prerequisite Programs)

✅ The Solution: Easy Plate™ for Utility Monitoring

Easy Plate™ YM-R is an advanced, ready-to-use plate designed for yeast and mold testing in air, water, and on surfaces. It supports proactive monitoring and hygiene validation without the need for traditional media preparation.

Why Easy Plate™ is ideal:

• ✔️ Pre-poured, ready-to-use – no need for agar prep or pouring

• ✔️ Compact, space-saving design – ideal for factory environments

• ✔️ Clear, reliable results in just 3–5 days

• ✔️ Supports air sampling, surface swabbing, and water testing

• ✔️ Ideal for HACCP and environmental monitoring programs