Food Processing Water Quality Checklist

Comprehensive food processing water quality checklist covering potable water requirements, process water testing, and ice production safety.

  • Industry: Food Manufacturing
  • Frequency: Daily/Weekly
  • Estimated Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Role: Quality Assurance
  • Total Items: 30
  • Compliance: FDA 21 CFR 117, EPA Safe Drinking Water Act, GFSI Standards

Potable Water

Drinking water supply

  • Municipal water supply documentation current?
  • Private well testing current (if applicable)?
  • Backflow prevention devices in place?

Process Water

Water used in production

  • Chlorine residual at acceptable level?
  • pH tested and within range?
  • Water temperature appropriate for process?

Ice Production

Ice safety

  • Ice machine clean and sanitized?
  • Ice handled with clean scoops?

Testing Program

Water testing schedule

  • Microbiological testing per schedule?
  • Test results within limits?
  • Testing records maintained?

Pre-Inspection Information

Initial inspection details and documentation

  • Inspector Name
  • Inspection Date
  • Location / Kitchen Area
  • Inspection Type (Routine/Follow-up/Complaint)
  • Previous inspection date and findings reviewed?

Temperature Control & Monitoring

Verify all temperature-sensitive equipment and food items

  • Refrigerator temperature at or below 41°F (5°C)?
  • Freezer temperature at or below 0°F (-18°C)?
  • Hot holding foods at or above 135°F (57°C)?
  • Thermometers calibrated and functional?
  • Temperature logs current and properly maintained?

Food Handling & Cross-Contamination Prevention

Proper food handling practices and contamination prevention

  • Proper handwashing observed (20 seconds, soap)?
  • Gloves used properly for ready-to-eat foods?
  • Raw and cooked foods properly separated?
  • Color-coded cutting boards used correctly?
  • Allergen cross-contact controls in place?

Food Storage & Labeling

Proper storage, rotation, and labeling of food items

  • FIFO (First In, First Out) rotation followed?
  • All items properly date-labeled?
  • Food stored 6 inches off floor?
  • No expired products in storage?

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Why Use This Food Processing Water Quality Checklist?

This food processing water quality checklist helps food manufacturing teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for quality assurance professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 8 sections. Recommended frequency: daily/weekly.

Ensures compliance with FDA 21 CFR 117, EPA Safe Drinking Water Act, GFSI Standards. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Food Processing Water Quality Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 8 sections: Potable Water, Process Water, Ice Production, Testing Program, Pre-Inspection Information, Temperature Control & Monitoring, Food Handling & Cross-Contamination Prevention, Food Storage & Labeling. It is designed for food manufacturing operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed daily/weekly. Each completion takes approximately 15-20 minutes.

Who should use this Food Processing Water Quality Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Quality Assurance professionals in the food manufacturing industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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