Some food pathogens are not well controlled by lethality treatments
followed by refrigeration. A food processing facility according to this
invention reduces the likelihood that food pathogens will be able to
enter the food processing facility, or spread should they be able to
enter. The food processing facility is divided into a plurality of area,
with different areas having different allowed actions that can be taken
on the food product, different rules and/or procedures for persons who
are allowed entry, and/or different levels of cleanliness. The food
processing facility includes a plurality of separate rooms for processing
the food product, each including separate food processing machines, air
handling systems, drain systems and/or often-used supplies and tools.
Different air pressures within different areas limit the possible
movement of airborne food pathogens. Sanitizing stations are placed
between various ones of the different areas.