Bakery Sector steps up to the plate during Covid-19 Pandemic

April 24, 2020

Zita McNaugher CAFRE Food Technologist

Bread forms a key aspect in the diet of Northern Ireland citizens and during these unprecedented times, consumers across the country find themselves wanting nutritious and convenient food with bread and bakery products being a firm family favourite.

The Bakery sector across Northern Ireland is meeting the current demand by streamlining product offerings to improve efficiency and also ensure social distancing can be practiced by their essential staff. Home bakeries are also being innovative offering free delivery services to local customers and contactless collections.

According to the very latest scientific guidance provided to consumers by the Food Standards Agency, it is very unlikely that you can catch coronavirus from food. COVID-19 is a respiratory illness. It is not known to be transmitted by exposure to food or food packaging. Good news for everyone.

Our large bakeries have recently contributed to Northern Ireland Food & Drink Association (NIFDA) guidelines for the implementation of good manufacturing practice within COVID-19 government guidance, identifying practical steps to keep employees and customers safe.

CAFRE’s team of Food Technologists are also standing by to offer COVID-19 manufacturing guidance to all food and drink businesses – large or small and in any sector. Staff at Loughry Campus have already fielded questions around social distancing in factory amenity areas, arrangements for visitors to manufacturing sites, and preparation for remote auditing.

If you have any queries in relation to Bakery help and support, or general COVID-19 related issues then please do not hesitate to contact Zita.McNaugher@daera-ni.gov.uk or the CAFRE food processing helpline on 0300 200 7846