The Canning Process | How Sardines Are Made | The Mega Global Story

Summary

Ayala Seafoods Corporation (ASC), a leading canning partner of Mega Global, produces high-quality sardines through an innovative 12-hour catching to canning process. Located in Zamboanga City, Philippines, ASC employs advanced technologies, including fish pumps and insulated bins, to ensure optimal freshness and quality while minimizing histamine levels. The fully integrated operations allow for efficient processing and zero waste, contributing to sustainable practices. ASC’s commitment to quality has earned it numerous certifications and awards, making it a trusted brand in the international market since its establishment in 1998.

Takeaways

• 🏭 Ayala Seafoods Corporation (ASC) is a modern canning facility in Zamboanga City, Philippines, producing 1 million cans of sardines daily.
• 🏅 ASC has received international certifications for safety and quality, including ISO 22000, HACCP, and Halal.
• 🐟 The 12-hour 'catching to canning' process ensures the freshest sardines are delivered to consumers with high omega-3 concentrations.
• 🚢 Fish is sourced from its sister company, Mega Fishing Corporation (MFC), ensuring a streamlined supply chain.
• 💡 Innovative technology, like the fish pump, speeds up unloading and minimizes histamine levels in sardines.
• 🔍 Quality assurance checks are performed at various stages to maintain strict quality standards throughout processing.
• 🔥 Cans are sterilized and hermetically sealed, followed by thermal processing to ensure commercial sterility and safety.
• 📦 The company produces various packaging options, including bottles and pouches, to meet consumer demands.
• ♻️ ASC follows a zero-waste policy, utilizing discarded fish parts for fish meal and oil for other industries.
• 🌍 Mega Global emphasizes responsible resource management and sustainability in its operations, contributing to its success in the market.

Q & A

What is Ayala Seafoods Corporation (ASC) known for?

ASC is known for being a modern canning partner of Mega Global, producing high-quality fish products, particularly under the Mega Sardines and Mega Creations brands.

Where are ASC's facilities located?

ASC's facilities are located in Zamboanga City, Philippines.

How many cans of sardines does ASC produce daily?

ASC produces 1 million cans of sardines daily.

What certifications has ASC received?

ASC has received multiple certifications including ISO 22000, HACCP, USFDA, Halal, and EU exportation certifications.

When was the Mega Sardines brand introduced to the Philippine market?

The Mega Sardines brand was introduced to the Philippine market in 1999, one year after ASC was founded.

What is the significance of the 12-hour catching to canning process?

The 12-hour catching to canning process ensures that the fish is processed quickly after being caught, maintaining its freshness and quality for consumers.

How does the fish pump improve the unloading process?

The fish pump significantly speeds up the unloading process from one hour to just 2-3 minutes, minimizing human handling and exposure of the fish to the external environment.

What are insulated bins used for in ASC's operations?

Insulated bins protect fish from contamination and help keep them fresh by preserving them in ice.

What steps are taken to ensure the cleanliness of the fish during processing?

Fish are thoroughly cleaned using a washing system with cold, bubbling water, and their scales are naturally removed during this process, ensuring sanitary handling.

What happens to discarded fish parts at ASC?

Discarded fish parts and those that do not meet production standards are processed into fish meal for agricultural feed and fish oil for the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries.