Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to recognise the characteristics and functions of food additives, preservatives, colours and flavours used in food products.
The unit applies to individuals who work with food additives in a food production environment. It is designed to provide an overview of food additives. It is not designed to meet the competency requirements of the person who specifies additives, preservatives, colours or flavours to be used in food. Analysis of the properties of food additives may also be done by a specialist.
No occupational licensing or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication. However, legislative and regulatory requirements for food processing exist, so local requirements must be checked. All work must comply with Australian food safety standards and relevant codes of practice.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements | Performance Criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Investigate the use of additives in food | 1.1 Identify types and groupings of food additives used in food products 1.2 Explain functions of food additives 1.3 Research legal requirements relating to use of food additives 1.4 Explain legal and quality consequences of incorrect additive addition |
2. Manage use of additives in a production process | 2.1 Identify additives types and groupings used in workplace product range 2.2 Determine and apply suitable methods of application of food additives to meet production requirements 2.3 Establish or review procedures for safe storage, handling and application of food additives 2.4 Conduct handling, use and disposal of additives in accordance with safety and environmental standards |
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential for performance in this unit of competency but are not explicit in the performance criteria.
Skill | Description |
Reading | Critically analyse documentation regarding food additive and legal implications from a variety of sources Read, review and evaluate policies and procedures relating to food additives |
Writing | Record outcomes of research work, and review and modify documentation using industry relevant terminology |
Numeracy | Perform mathematical calculations for analysing food additive application rates |
Sectors
Technical (TEC)