The Essential Context of Food Grade Lubricants in the Industrial World

The Essential Context of Food Grade Lubricants in the Industrial World

by | Nov 25, 2020 | EPI Phil, Oil Based Lubricants

If society and civilization can be compared to an efficient and consistent clock, with its gears and inner machinery all working splendidly well and fine, then its success must be owed to those who oil it, who make sure that the whole machine is running smoothly. We mean this metaphorically, in how “those who oil” society’s gears are those who make things run on time (managers, essential workers, etc) but let’s look at the concept of lubrication, such as oil.

There are many types of lubricant, from Oil based lubricants to synthetic lubricants. Food-grade lubricants, for example, are used in food processing machines and other such technology and must meet high safety standards because of its proximity to edible materials. Here, the lubricants are literal, but nonetheless, they provide an essential service to society. How did this come to be?

A Snapshot of Lubricants in History

Before food grade lubricants were a thing, lubrication has been an important part of any machine-based task ever since humanity developed civilization. Oil and grease were used in the construction of ancient buildings, like the ones in Egypt, while evidence showed that the various wheeled vehicles of antiquity (carts, chariots, carriages, etc.) were oiled to stop them from chafing. As the Industrial revolution approached, more and more complex machines were developed for mass production, and as such, more lubrication was in demand to keep such devices running. Eventually, this would lead to food production machines that needed oil to keep their segments working well, but since such devices processed food, how did they oil it while making sure that the food processed was clean? The answer was food grade lubricants.

Why are Food Grade Lubricants important in the Industry?

Cleanliness: Such lubricants help the machine stay clean, and are also free of harmful chemicals that might warp or spoil the food being processed.
Efficiency: Food grade lubricants are still lubricants, and as such are expected to perform their duties (heat transfer, ease up friction, etc.). The only distinction is that they are edible enough to be used near food.

Religious or cultural norms: Certain religions or cultures (such as practicing Jews and Muslims) do not abide with eating certain foods. To reassure the customers who buy products processed by such machines, companies certify that their machines and products do not contain taboo contaminants. As food grade lubricants suppliers in the Philippines, we make sure that our products conform to the cultural, ethical, religious and environmental needs of our customers.

An Example of a Reliable Food Grade Lubricant Provider

Petro Canada Lubricants are a staple provider of high-quality good grade lubricants. Their PURITYTM FG products are designed to give efficient lubrication while also inhibiting the growth of harmful microbes and chemicals on the industry machines. As befitting their title, PURITYTM FG products like PURITYTM FG Gear Fluids with MICROL™ MAX† lubricants can withstand high temperatures and other effects, while also preventing contamination and maintaining the cleanliness needed for food based machines.

 

What are Petro Canada’s Credentials?

The PURITYTM FG Food Grade Lubricants that Petro Canada supplies include NSF H1 lubricants designed to tackle and mitigate the effects of accidental food contact. Such products can also be integrated to HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) programs with ease. Their products can withstand the pressure of powerful food processing conditions, and can greatly reduce downtime and save money. If you want a trustworthy source of industry food grade lubricants, trust Petro Canada Lubricants.

 

Four Things You Should Remember When Branching Out for Your Agri Supplies

Four Things You Should Remember When Branching Out for Your Agri Supplies

by | Nov 18, 2020 | Crop Nutrition Products, Crop Protection Products, EPI Phil

With too many products lining our shelves everyday, it’s no wonder that we tend to stick to one specific brand that we’ve been using for years or, that was suggested by a trusted friend of ours. This also rings true to agri suppliers and dealers, because sometimes, it’s not a matter of loyalty so much as their product’s resistance to changes.

However, this practice shouldn’t be something we should tolerate, especially since a lot of studies and improvements are being done in order to improve the agricultural sector of our country. That is why it is always important to branch out. Here are some things you need to consider when adding a new product to your stores.

It’s all about Quality

When it comes to agriculture, especially on crop protection products, quality is a deciding factor. But it’s not just about the product, as the quality of the supplier should also be considered. You don’t want something on your store that isn’t effective, and you certainly won’t want a partnership that doesn’t have a good relationship with their dealers and doesn’t provide support that a store needs.

Pricing Vs. Best Competitors

Products that are distributed should be fairly and competitively priced with regards to its performance and function, and against other products. It isn’t necessary for it to be cheap. It just has to deliver its functions effectively and efficiently at an acceptable price.

Exclusivity

In order to gain better traction, it is best to sell products where you can get a large enough exclusive area. That’s because lesser competition is always equal to higher sales.

It’s not only territory that needs exclusivity, it’s very much preferred to have an exclusive saleable feature that sets it apart from other brands. Take crop nutrition products for example, a specific quality that would not only enhance, but also protect foliar nutrition is something that would attract a lot of customers.

Ability to Provide

How fast the supplier can get new products should also be considered, since a lot of manufacturers sell their products with no plans for follow up sales, and you don’t want your business to be empty.

Additionally, getting a company that can provide a wide array of products is a trait you should look for. This saves you time to fill in the holes in your store. EPI Phil is an example for this company, it has a total of nine products that have different functions for crop protection and nutrition, depending on what you need.

 

3 Common Waterborne Bacteria in the Philippines

3 Common Waterborne Bacteria in the Philippines

by | Nov 2, 2020 | EPI Phil, Potable Water Solutions

One of the global problems affecting us in these modern times is food security, and among these issues encountered, water contaminants are the most prevalent. This can be concerning as water-borne illnesses are one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity around the world.

With the sudden onset of rain, especially, having a potable water solution would help you and your family face the several disease-causing microbes lurking around the corner. Here are some of the most common water-borne bacteria and illnesses that people should be most wary of here in the Philippines:

Typhoid Fever

Typhoid fever is an illness caused by the bacterium, Salmonella typhi. It is more common in third world countries and an estimate made by the World Health Organization shows that around 11 – 20 million are affected annually which leads to 128,000 – 161,000 deaths every year.

It is highly infectious, spreading through food, water, and poor sanitation. That is why highly aggregated poor communities that lack access to safe water and adequate sanitation are the most susceptible.
People who are infected with the bacterium are presented with the following symptoms:

  • Fever that grows gradually
  • Muscle aches
  • Sweating
  • Diarrhea
  • Muscle Aches

Although the illness can be treated with antibiotics, the emergence of highly resistant bacteria is a cause for alarm. Vaccines are also available, that is why, when you have plans to travel to places with poor sanitation and access to water, a shot is highly recommended.

Cholera

Another common bacteria-causing illness in our country is the Vibrio cholerae which is known to cause cholera. Same with typhoid fever, it is rampant in poor communities with little to no access to clean water and proper sanitation. Although most people do not show symptoms, cholera can be fatal and can kill within hours if untreated.

Its symptoms include:

  • Vomiting
  • Severe Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Muscle Cramps

Cholera can be treated easily with Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS). But severely dehydrated patients who did not have rapid access to rehydration treatment would need the administration of intravenous fluids (IV).

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is also a bacterial disease caused by Leptospira. It can be spread through contact with infected urine of animals or with a urine-contaminated environment, this is why the onset of leptospirosis is commonly associated with the rainy season which can cause floods.

The bacteria can enter your body through scratches or cuts on your skin, or through the mucous membranes of your mouth, nose, and eyes and could possibly cause you:

  • Conjunctival suffusion
  • Jaundice
  • Cough
  • Hemorrhages
  • Cardiac Failure
  • Skin Rash
  • Abdominal Pain
  • Diarrhea and Nausea

It can be treated with oral antibiotics if the disease is still in its early stage. However, intravenous antibiotics will be required for a person to showcasing a more severe symptom.

Clean and Safe Water is an Investment

These are only three of the disease-causing microbes commonly found in the water systems of our country, but there are a lot more. From the bacteria, E. coli, to the amebiasis causing protozoan, and the virus that causes Hepatitis A, drinking unsafe water can be scarier than many Filipinos might think.

That is why, we at EPI Phil make sure to offer accessible water safety solutions such as Polydex, a water-miscible liquid that eliminates bacteria and algae that are present on the water. It results in cleaner water, reduces odor, is non-irritating to the eyes and skin, eco-friendly, and is very safe on humans.