HKIA and AAT to prevent potential food safety hazards

Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) cargo terminal operator Asia Airfreight Terminal (AAT) has been granted ISO 22000:2018 and HACCP certifications.

Both systems aim to prevent potential food safety hazards.

ISO 22000:2018 is an internationally recognised standard that specifies the requirements for a food safety management system (FSMS) in any organisation involved in the food supply chain.

Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) is designed to identify and prevent hazards throughout the handling process.

According to AAT, the certifications demonstrate that it has established and implemented a comprehensive set of processes and controls to ensure the safety of food products being handled.

Christine Ng, senior manager at LRQA, said that LRQA is a “world leader in offering ISO 22000 certification and training services, having helped develop the standard.

“Food safety is a global concern. We are pleased to bear the responsibility with AAT, providing customised solutions to help them manage risks and ensure best practice when working towards effective food safety procedures, and ensuring that consumers have access to safe and quality food.”

Mike Chew, AAT’s chief executive, added: “We fully comprehend that the demand of air transport of food, especially perishables and cold chain products, continues to grow rapidly in the market.

“AAT is proud to receive these certifications validating our capability to effectively handle cold chain shipments. The certification is also a testament to our commitment in exceeding our customers’ expectation through operational excellence.”

AAT has, it said, implemented an extensive range of measures to ensure compliance with ISO 22000:2018 requirements, including the establishment of strict hygiene and sanitation protocols and the provision of training for all staff involved in food handling operations.

In other good news for the terminal operator, earlier this month AAT reported that it has received the ‘Best Warehouse GHA’ (ground handling agent) award from Turkish Cargo as a reward for its general operational performance in 2022.

The ceremony at which it was give the award was held during IATA’s World Cargo Symposium held in Istanbul at the end of April.

“This recognition is a testament to our team’s unwavering commitment to excellence and dedication to providing exceptional service to our customers,” AAT said.