What is the MOCA Regulation and Why is it Essential for Griddle Plates in the Catering Industry?

In the professional catering sector, food safety is an absolute priority. Among the various regulations ensuring consumer protection, the MOCA regulation ("Materials and Objects in Contact with Food") plays a crucial role. This regulation governs the use of materials and objects that come into direct contact with food, ensuring they are safe, do not alter the quality of food, and pose no risks to human health.

What Does the MOCA Regulation Require?

The MOCA regulation is primarily based on EC Regulation 1935/2004, which sets general requirements for materials and objects intended to come into contact with food. According to this regulation, materials must:

  1. Be safe: They must not release substances that could pose a danger to human health.
  2. Not alter food: They must not modify the taste, smell, or chemical composition of food.
  3. Be traceable: Each MOCA material must be accompanied by documentation ensuring its compliance with applicable regulations.

This regulation is further supported by EC Regulation 2023/2006, which introduces Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to ensure high standards throughout all production phases.

The Importance of MOCA Regulation for Cooking Plates in the Catering Industry

Cooking plates used in fry-tops and other professional kitchen equipment fall under the provisions of the MOCA regulation since they come into direct contact with food during cooking. Ensuring that these plates comply with this regulation is essential for several reasons:

  1. Consumer safety: Non-compliant plates could release harmful substances when heated, putting customers' health at risk.
  2. Food quality: Inappropriate materials could alter the taste or smell of food, compromising the dining experience.
  3. Legal compliance: Companies that fail to comply with the MOCA regulation risk severe penalties and reputational damage.

Smartech Italia’s Solutions for MOCA-Compliant Cooking Plates

At Smartech Italia, compliance with the MOCA regulation is at the core of the design and production of our cooking plates for both professional and domestic catering. We use only high-quality materials that meet MOCA requirements, ensuring that:

  • Our plates are safe: The selected materials are tested to withstand high temperatures without releasing harmful substances. Tests are conducted in line with the latest directives, such as the EDQM Resolution CM/Res (2013)9, regarding specific migration tests using a 5 g/L citric acid simulant.
  • They meet legal requirements: Our production processes are designed to ensure full compliance with current regulations, with rigorous quality controls and technical documentation available upon request.
  • They meet professionals’ needs: Our plates not only guarantee safety but also offer uniform cooking and durability, catering to the most demanding kitchens.

Conclusion

The MOCA regulation is a fundamental pillar of food safety in professional catering. For equipment manufacturers like Smartech Italia, ensuring the compliance of cooking plates means not only meeting legal standards but also offering customers a reliable and high-quality product. Investing in MOCA-compliant plates is not just an obligation but a commitment to safety and consumer satisfaction.