Choosing the right commercial food storage shelving for your kitchen or business is more than just a matter of organization; it’s crucial for maintaining operational efficiency, complying with food safety regulations, and ensuring long-term durability. In Australia, food businesses ranging from restaurants and cafes to food manufacturers and catering services require shelving that meets strict hygiene and safety standards while optimising their storage capacity. This blog, presented by Mantova, will guide you through everything you need to know to choose the best commercial food storage shelving for your business needs.
Why Choosing the Right Shelving is Vital
In any commercial kitchen, café, restaurant, or food production environment, storage solutions go beyond simple organisation. Proper shelving is vital for:
- Ensuring food safety and hygiene: Food storage must meet strict health regulations to avoid contamination and spoilage.
- Maximising space efficiency: Proper shelving helps businesses make the most of available space, especially in smaller kitchens and storage areas.
- Increasing operational efficiency: The right shelving ensures quick access to food products, speeding up service and reducing wasted time.
- Durability and ease of maintenance: Shelving systems need to be durable and easy to clean to maintain food safety and long-lasting functionality.
Mantova, with its reputation for high-quality shelving systems, ensures that your storage setup not only meets regulatory standards but also supports your operational needs effectively. By choosing the right shelving, you can enhance the overall performance of your business and reduce unnecessary operational challenges.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Commercial Food Storage Shelving
Selecting the best commercial food storage shelving requires considering several important factors that can influence your business operations. Let’s break them down in more detail:
Space and Layout Considerations
The layout of your storage area is one of the most critical factors when selecting shelving. Proper use of available space can improve workflow, reduce clutter, and enhance efficiency. When choosing shelving, consider the following:
- Size and Dimensions: Measure your storage area carefully. Take into account height, width, and the layout of your kitchen or warehouse. For tight spaces, look for shelving that uses vertical space and offers maximum storage without crowding.
- Movement and Accessibility: Ensure there’s enough space to move around and access items stored on shelves without difficulty. Leave space between shelves for easy access, especially for frequently used ingredients.
- Vertical vs Horizontal Storage: If your space is small, vertical storage options, such as high shelving, can free up floor space and make the most of your area. However, in larger kitchens, horizontal shelving may work better for bulk storage of larger items.
Weight Capacity and Durability
The shelves in your kitchen or storage area must be able to bear the weight of the items they are meant to store. If you’re dealing with bulk ingredients, heavy kitchen equipment, or large containers, you’ll need strong, durable shelving. When choosing shelving, consider the following:
- Weight Capacity: Check the maximum weight capacity each shelf can hold. Some shelving units are designed to support lighter loads, while others are built for heavy-duty use.
- Material Strength: Shelves made from high-quality materials like stainless steel or galvanised steel will provide long-lasting durability even when supporting heavier items.
- Wear and Tear: Choose materials that can withstand daily use without showing signs of wear. Shelving that is prone to bending or warping under heavy loads can pose a safety risk.
Material Options
Selecting the right material for your shelving is crucial for both longevity and hygiene. The material you choose should be resistant to rust, easy to clean, and durable enough to withstand the rigours of a busy food service environment.
- Stainless Steel Shelving: Stainless steel is highly resistant to rust, easy to clean, and extremely durable. It is the top choice for high-end kitchens and environments that require hygiene and longevity.
- Wire Shelving: This is a lightweight and versatile material that provides excellent airflow, which helps keep food dry and prevents moisture buildup. Wire shelving is ideal for areas where air circulation is important, such as pantries or walk-in fridges.
- Plastic Shelving: Plastic shelving is resistant to corrosion and typically lighter than metal shelving. However, it is not as durable under heavy loads and may not last as long in harsh kitchen environments.
Hygiene and Food Safety Regulations
In Australia, food storage shelving must comply with local food safety and hygiene standards, including those set by Safe Food Production Queensland (SFQ), Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ), and local council regulations. When choosing shelving, ensure it:
- It is Easy to clean: Smooth surfaces are easier to clean and disinfect. Avoid shelves with rough edges or crevices where food particles and bacteria can collect.
- Meets Health Codes: Make sure the shelves you choose meet health and safety regulations specific to your region. For example, shelves should be raised off the floor to allow for proper drainage and to prevent pests.
- Promotes Airflow: Shelving that allows for good ventilation helps reduce moisture buildup, which can prevent mold and bacterial growth in food storage areas.
- HACCP and food safety compliant: When selecting commercial food storage shelving, ensure it meets HACCP standards for food safety. Shelving must be easy to clean, durable, and resistant to contamination to maintain hygiene in your kitchen or storage area.
Adjustability and Customisation
As your business grows, your storage needs may change. The ability to adjust shelf height and configuration can help you adapt to new storage requirements. Adjustable shelving is an excellent solution for businesses that anticipate fluctuating inventory sizes. Some benefits of adjustable shelving include:
- Versatility: Adjust the height of shelves to accommodate various-sized items, whether it’s small containers or large crates.
- Customisable Solutions: If your storage area has unique requirements, consider shelving systems that are customisable in terms of both size and shape. Mantova offers tailored solutions to suit your specific space and needs.
- Scalability: Adjustable shelving allows you to scale up your storage capacity as your business grows.
Types of Commercial Food Storage Shelving
There are various types of commercial food storage shelving that you can choose from, each offering distinct advantages depending on your needs. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular types of shelving available in Australia:
Wire Shelving
Wire shelving is the most common choice for many commercial kitchens and food storage facilities. It’s affordable, easy to clean, and provides excellent airflow, reducing the risk of moisture buildup. Wire shelving is best suited for:
- Walk-in pantries
- Dry storage rooms
- Storage areas that require good ventilation.
Adjustable Shelving
Adjustable shelving is ideal for businesses that need flexible storage solutions. These units allow you to modify the height between shelves, making them perfect for spaces where you need to store items of varying sizes. Adjustable shelves are particularly useful in kitchens and warehouses where storage needs may change frequently.
Heavy-Duty Shelving
For heavy-duty storage, heavy-duty shelving is essential. Constructed from durable materials like stainless steel or galvanised steel, these shelves are designed to hold large quantities of heavy items, such as bulk ingredients or kitchen equipment. They are especially beneficial in warehouses, food manufacturing facilities, and other high-volume operations.
Mobile Shelving Systems
Mobile shelving systems are mounted on wheels, allowing them to be easily moved around your storage area. This type of shelving is great for businesses that need flexibility and may require frequent rearranging of items or access to different storage sections. It’s particularly useful in small kitchens or warehouses where you may need to create more space.
Cool Room Shelving for Refrigerated Areas
If your business involves storing perishable goods, you will need refrigerated shelving. This type of shelving is designed to withstand the cold temperatures of walk-in fridges or freezers while resisting rust and corrosion. Typically made from stainless steel or powder-coated metals, these shelves help maintain a hygienic and organised cold storage environment.
Top Brand for Commercial Food Storage Shelving in Australia
When investing in commercial food storage shelving, you should always opt for reputable brands that offer quality, reliability, and excellent customer service. In Australia, several brands stand out in the market:
Mantova is a trusted Australian brand offering high-quality, durable, and custom shelving solutions designed to meet the unique needs of commercial kitchens and food storage areas. Whether you’re running a café, restaurant, or warehouse, Mantova has the perfect shelving solution for your business.
Cost and Budget Considerations
When budgeting for commercial food storage shelving, price is an important factor. However, don’t let cost be the sole determinant. Shelving is a long-term investment, and selecting a cheaper option may result in higher maintenance costs or an inability to store items safely. Here’s what you need to know:
- Wire Shelving: Wire shelving is the most cost-effective option. It’s perfect for businesses on a budget, as it provides essential storage functionality without breaking the bank.
- Stainless Steel Shelving: While more expensive, stainless steel shelving provides superior durability and hygiene, making it a better long-term investment.
- Heavy-Duty Shelving: Expect to pay a premium for heavy-duty shelving, but the higher cost reflects its durability and weight-bearing capacity.
- Custom Shelving: Custom shelving will typically cost more, but it offers tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of your space.
Maintenance and Durability
Maintaining your commercial food storage shelving is essential to ensure longevity and compliance with health and safety standards. Here’s how to care for your shelves:
- Cleaning: Regularly clean your shelving to prevent dirt, food particles, and bacteria from building up. Stainless steel shelves can be cleaned with a mild detergent, while plastic shelves may require more frequent cleaning.
- Inspection: Periodically inspect your shelves for signs of wear, such as rust, bending, or instability. Ensure the shelves are securely fixed and able to bear the weight they are designed for.
- Corrosion Prevention: For kitchens located in coastal areas, choose shelving that resists corrosion. Mantova’s stainless steel shelving is a great option for environments exposed to moisture and salt.
Where to Buy the Best Commercial Food Storage Shelving in Australia
You can purchase commercial food storage shelving from various sources, including:
- Online Retailers: Websites like Mantova offer a wide selection of shelving options and provide the convenience of online shopping with home delivery.
- Local Suppliers: Physical shelving distributors across Australia allow you to see the products firsthand, which helps you assess quality and fit for your space.
- Direct from Manufacturers: If you have specific requirements, purchasing directly from manufacturers like Mantova ensures you receive a custom solution tailored to your needs.
FAQs
- What is the best material for commercial food storage shelving?
- Stainless steel is considered the best material due to its resistance to rust, durability, and ease of cleaning. It’s ideal for food storage areas where hygiene is a priority.
- How do I calculate the weight capacity needed for my shelves?
- Consider the weight of the items you plan to store. Calculate the combined weight of your bulk ingredients, containers, and kitchen equipment, and choose shelving that exceeds this capacity to ensure safety.
- Can I use adjustable shelving for heavy-duty items?
- Yes, adjustable shelving can handle heavy-duty items as long as it’s made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel. Always check the weight capacity before purchasing.
- How often should I clean my shelving?
- Shelves should be cleaned regularly—at least once a week. If your kitchen is particularly busy, consider more frequent cleaning to maintain hygiene.
- Why is wire shelving better for food storage?
- Wire shelving promotes airflow, which helps keep food dry and reduces moisture buildup. It’s especially beneficial in environments like pantries, walk-in fridges, and storage areas prone to humidity.
Conclusion
Choosing the best commercial food storage shelving in Australia is a significant decision that impacts the efficiency, safety, and functionality of your business. By considering factors such as space, material durability, compliance with hygiene standards, and cost, you can make a well-informed decision that supports your business operations. With Mantova’s range of high-quality, durable shelving options, you can rest assured that your storage solutions will meet the demands of your business for years to come.
