Overview

This course provides an excellent background in the thermal processing of foods. It is also designed to provide participants with the knowledge and skills to effectively supervise retort operations. Those completing the course will understand the fundamentals of thermal processing, the practicalities of applying these processes, and how they relate to the safety and general quality of the products processed. While the program is mostly directed at low-acid shelf-stable foods, content is also relevant to cook-chill and acid pasteurisation processes.

All aspects of the thermal processing of foods packed in cans, bottles, pouches, and similar containers are covered —

• Introduction to thermal processing
• Thermal processing systems (including retort types)
• Introduction to thermal processing
• Packaging systems for thermally processed foods
• Microbiology of canned foods
• Principles of thermal processing
• Retort operation and production records
• Cooling water chlorination and canning sanitation
• Regulations relevant to thermal processing

The packaging section will be tailored to focus on the categories most relevant to the group. This can include training in can seam analysis if required.

FoodStream has a pilot Steriflow retort in a cooperative relationship with charity meals organisation FareShare (https://www.fareshare.net.au/brisbane/) – the course includes practical demonstrations using these facilities.

A written exam covering the contents of the course and a practical examination related to retort operation must be completed.

Who Should Attend?

Those wanting an understanding of thermal processes and their application. Retort operators, line supervisors, quality assurance personnel, product development staff, and maintenance personnel will all benefit from the understanding provided by this course.

When:

Tuesday to Friday 25 to 28 February 2025

The program will start at 8:30 am daily. The course will conclude by 1:00 pm on the final day.

Where:

FareShare
46 Steel Place
Morningside QLD 4170

Transport/Parking:

Car – Car parking for course participants is not available on site and is very limited in the surrounding streets. We strongly encourage carpooling or using a ride share service. Alternatively, there is some extra parking available at Colmslie Reserve and a walking path to the FareShare street.

Bike – there is ample secure bike parking on site

Public transport – best options from the city are the 230 or 235 buses. Get off at Stop 33 (Fifth Ave near Lytton Rd) from which it is a 12 minute walk to FareShare.

Registration Fee:

$ 2,400 plus 10% GST

Includes course notes, lunches, morning and afternoon teas.

REGISTRATIONS CLOSE ON TUESDAY 15 October 2024, or when fully booked.

Please register early – COURSE PLACES ARE LIMITED.

To book places at the course, submit the following registration form.

We will confirm your booking  and send an invoice for your registration fees. Fees must be paid prior to the course.

OUR CANCELLATION POLICY

Fees, less a 10% handling charge, will be refunded if participants cancel their registration at least four weeks prior to the course. Fees will not be refunded after that date, but a substitute participant will be accepted at any time.

FoodStream reserves the right to cancel or postpone the course if necessary (e.g. due to insufficient registrations). In this case a full refund of fees will be available. FoodStream’s Liability is limited to the registration fee only, and cannot be held liable for air fares, accommodation, or other related expenses.