Who this standard is for:
The standard applies to both domestic and export meat processing industries, serving as the foundation for meat processing guidelines for cattle, sheep, pigs, and goats.
AS 4696:2023 is also important for industry, state, and commonwealth regulators as it promotes a uniform approach to the production and transportation of meat and meat products and strengthens the reputation of Australia as a trading partner.
What is AS 4696:2023?
Food safety hazards are present throughout the entire food preparation process. Apart from the substantial financial consequences of food safety lapses, the potential contamination of meat during its production and transportation poses a considerable health risk to the public.
AS 4696:2023 is designed to aid in ensuring that meat and meat products intended for human consumption meet food safety requirements. The standard covers the hygienic processing and transport of primary meat species for both domestic and export markets.
What are the benefits of AS 4696:2023?
The standard contributes to mitigating public health and safety hazards while also aiming to deliver significant economic advantages for the meat processing industry.
AS 4696:2023 seeks to promote uniformity in meat processing standards for cattle, sheep, pigs, and goats intended for both domestic and export markets, consolidating animal health, biosecurity, and food safety within a single technical document.
What changed in the revised standard?
The key revision from the previous version (AS 4696:2007) of this standard involves the incorporation of risk-based amendments to post-mortem inspection protocols (Schedule 2) and disposition judgements (Schedule 3) for cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs.
Where can I access or purchase this standard?
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