Definition: Any interruption in temperature-controlled conditions from production to consumption, potentially compromising product safety or quality.
Common Causes:
- Equipment failure
- Extended door openings
- Power outages
- Improper handling
- Inadequate pre-cooling
- Insufficient refrigeration capacity
Consequences:
- Bacterial growth (food safety risk)
- Quality degradation
- Shelf life reduction
- Product loss (may require disposal)
- Regulatory non-compliance
Prevention: Redundancy, backup systems, monitoring, maintenance, staff training.
Related Terms: Temperature Excursion, Cold Chain, Equipment Failure