ISO 6663:1995

Overview

ISO 6663:1995 is a crucial standard that addresses the cold storage of garlic, a widely used ingredient in food technology. This standard outlines the necessary conditions for the storage of garlic to maintain its quality, safety, and nutritional value. The guidelines provided in this standard are essential for food manufacturers, distributors, and retailers who handle garlic in various forms.

Key Requirements

The standard specifies several key requirements for the cold storage of garlic, which include:

• Temperature Control: Garlic must be stored at specific temperature ranges to prevent spoilage and preserve its organoleptic properties.
• Humidity Levels: Maintaining appropriate humidity levels is critical to prevent dehydration and maintain the quality of garlic.
• Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is necessary to prevent the accumulation of gases that may affect garlic quality.
• Packaging Requirements: The standard outlines suitable packaging materials that protect garlic from external contaminants while allowing for necessary air circulation.

Implementation Benefits

Adhering to ISO 6663:1995 offers several practical benefits for businesses involved in the garlic supply chain:

• Quality Assurance: Implementing the standard ensures that garlic retains its flavour, aroma, and nutritional value, which is essential for consumer satisfaction.
• Reduced Waste: By following the recommended storage conditions, businesses can significantly reduce spoilage and waste, leading to cost savings.
• Enhanced Shelf Life: Proper cold storage extends the shelf life of garlic, allowing for longer distribution periods and improved inventory management.
• Consumer Trust: Compliance with recognised standards enhances brand reputation and builds consumer trust in product quality.

Compliance Value

Compliance with ISO 6663:1995 is not only a best practice but also a regulatory requirement in many jurisdictions. The benefits of compliance include:

• Regulatory Compliance: Meeting the requirements of this standard helps businesses comply with food safety regulations and avoid potential legal issues.
• Market Access: Many retailers and distributors require compliance with recognised standards as a condition for doing business, thus facilitating market access.
• Risk Management: Implementing the standard helps identify and mitigate risks associated with garlic storage, ensuring a safer food supply chain.

In conclusion, ISO 6663:1995 provides essential guidelines for the cold storage of garlic, ensuring quality, safety, and compliance. By adhering to this standard, businesses can enhance their operational efficiency, reduce waste, and build consumer trust in their products.