Learn Food Safety - Acidified Foods Training April 2025

By Blake Jackson

The University of Missouri Extension is offering a training course on acidified foods in April, led by food safety expert Kantha Channaiah. The FDA-recognized Better Process Control School (BPCS) will be held on April 17-18 in Columbia, Missouri.

Acidified foods are low-acid foods that have had acid added to them, lowering their pH to below 4.6. This process is crucial for preventing the growth of harmful bacteria, particularly Clostridium botulinum. These foods, with a water activity greater than 0.85, include items like salsas, pickles, hot sauces, and dressings.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates acidified foods, requiring proper acidification, thermal processing, monitoring, and record-keeping to ensure food safety.

Missouri State Acidified Food Regulations mirror Title 21, Part 114 of the Code of Federal Regulations, mandating processing authority review and BPCS attendance. Commercial processors must also use inspected kitchens and register with the FDA.

"It should be noted that each county in Missouri has a distinct regulation for producing and processing food products for human consumption," Channaiah said. "It's crucial to consult with your local health department to ensure that all local ordinances and permits are in place. For detailed information and guidance, producers are encouraged to contact the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services or consult the Missouri Food Code."

The course will cover:

• Microbiology of thermally processed foods.
• Sanitation for retorts and atmospheric cookers.
• Closure of glass and twist-off plastic containers.
• Thermal processing.

Participants completing the course will receive a Certificate of Course Completion, fulfilling the FDA's training requirement for acidified food production.

The BPCS training will take place at the Eckles Event Center, Room 154, 1406 E. Rollins St., Columbia. The schedule is 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. on Thursday, April 17, and 8:30 a.m.-noon on Friday, April 18.

The cost is $450. Registration can be completed at: https://extension.missouri.edu/events/better-process-control-school-acidified-foods

Photo Credit: pexels-denise-nys