Why export regulations prevent potable-grade wastewater recycling for Australian red meat processors, and how it may change in the future
While potable-grade (food contact) wastewater recycling has become a popular and successful practice in many countries, it remains prohibited for Australian red meat processors due to export regulations.
Why are export regulations preventing potable-grade wastewater recycling?
The Australian red meat processing industry is a major contributor to the country's economy, with exports valued at over $17 billion in 2020. However, these exports are subject to strict regulations, particularly in terms of food safety and hygiene. One of the key regulations is the prohibition of using recycled water for any activity that could potentially contaminate the meat products.
As a result, Australian regulators have taken a cautious approach to wastewater reuse in the red meat processing industry, prohibiting the use of recycled water for any activities that could potentially come into contact with meat products. This includes cleaning and processing activities.
The prohibition of potable-grade wastewater recycling in Australian red meat processing plants presents several challenges for companies looking to reduce their water usage and costs. These challenges include:
Limited options for wastewater disposal: Without the ability to reuse wastewater, companies must either discharge it into the local sewer system or pay for it to be transported and treated off-site. This can be a costly and environmentally unsustainable practice.
Increased water usage and costs: Red meat processing plants use a significant amount of water in their operations, from washing and cleaning to cooking and cooling. Without the ability to recycle wastewater, companies must rely on fresh water sources, which can be expensive and limited in supply.
Missed opportunities for sustainable practices: Potable-grade wastewater recycling is a proven and effective method for reducing water usage and costs in many industries. Without this option, Australian red meat processing plants are missing out on an opportunity to implement sustainable practices that benefit both their bottom line and the environment.
What areas of wastewater reuse regulations do currently allow?
While the prohibition of potable-grade wastewater recycling is a significant limitation for Australian red meat processing plants, there are still opportunities for wastewater reuse in other areas. These include:
Non-potable wastewater recycling: While recycled water cannot be used for activities that could potentially contaminate meat products, it can be used for non-potable purposes such as irrigation, cooling towers, boilers, and truck wash.
Effluent treatment: The treatment of effluent, which is the wastewater generated from animal processing, can be an effective way to reduce water usage and costs. Effluent can be treated and reused for activities such as irrigation, or discharged into the municipal trade wast system.
What might the future hold for wastewater reuse regulations?
As the demand for sustainable practices increases, it is possible that regulations surrounding potable-grade wastewater recycling in the Australian red meat processing industry may change in the future. In fact, the Australian Meat Processor Corporation (AMPC) has been working with industry stakeholders and regulators to explore the potential for recycled water in the industry.
In 2019, the AMPC commissioned a study to investigate the feasibility of potable-grade recycled water in the red meat processing industry. The study found that the use of recycled water could result in significant cost savings and reductions in water usage, while also maintaining the high standards of food safety and hygiene required by regulators.
However, the study also highlighted the need for further research and development to address concerns around consumer perception and regulatory compliance. This includes the development of robust monitoring and reporting systems to ensure that recycled water is used safely and responsibly.
While there is no timeline for changes to the regulations, the AMPC and industry stakeholders continue to advocate for the use of recycled water in the red meat processing industry.
As awareness and understanding of the benefits of recycled water increase, it is possible that we may see changes to the regulations in the future.
The prohibition of potable-grade wastewater recycling in Australian red meat processing plants presents several challenges for companies looking to reduce their water usage and costs. While there are limitations to wastewater reuse in the industry, there are still opportunities for non-potable water recycling, greywater recycling, and effluent treatment.
As the demand for sustainable practices increases, there may be potential for changes to the regulations surrounding potable-grade wastewater recycling in the future. In the meantime, companies can explore alternative methods of reducing water usage and costs, such as implementing water-efficient practices and investing in water-saving technologies.
At Waterform Technologies, we specialise in providing sustainable water solutions for businesses across Australia. If you're interested in learning more about wastewater recycling or other water-saving practices, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you find the best water solutions for your business, while also contributing to a more sustainable future.