AVA Vending Hygiene Focus: Food Waste.

1. Regular Checks: Inspect vending machines frequently to remove food before its shelf life expires. Never sell food past its ‘use-by’ date; remove it from the site promptly.
2. Shelf Life Awareness: Ambient stable foods can be consumed past their ‘best before’ date, but ‘use-by’ dated foods must not be consumed and should be discarded.
3. Liquid Waste: Empty the liquid waste bucket in drink vending machines during routine cleaning to prevent overflow and contamination.
4. Safe Transport: Place expired, damaged, or waste food in closable containers for transport to avoid contaminating other foods.
5. Secure Waste Storage: At the operator’s premises, ensure food waste containers are sealed and secure to prevent access by animals and birds.
6. Chilled Foods Disposal: Dispose of chilled foods past their ‘use-by’ date through a licensed waste handling company, as they are classified as Category 3 (low risk) under the Animal By-Products Regulations 2005.
7. Waste Carriers’ Licence: If transporting waste such as cups, packaging, and food from site to base, apply for a waste carriers’ licence at Gov.uk Waste Carrier Registration

1. Immediate Removal: Don’t leave expired food in waste bins; remove it from the site immediately to maintain hygiene and prevent odors.
2. Clean Waste Buckets: Clean the waste bucket of drink vending machines before replacing it. Use an odourless, food-safe sanitising agent after cleaning to maintain freshness.
3. Lined Receptacles: Line waste receptacles with plastic liners that can be easily removed and secured, minimizing contact between food waste and the container.
4. Secure Bagging: Ensure all food waste placed in outdoor receptacles is securely bagged to prevent spillage and access by pests.
5. Regular Cleaning: Clean outdoor waste receptacles regularly to maintain hygiene and prevent contamination.

By adhering to these instructions, you can effectively manage food waste in your vending and dispensing operations, ensuring compliance with legal standards and maintaining a high level of hygiene. This not only helps in preventing contamination and pests but also promotes a cleaner, more efficient operation. Visit the AVA website to learn more , or take a look at our vending solutions.