HACCP FAQs

What is HACCP?

The most common question for HACCP FAQs – HACCP stands for ‘Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points’, it is an internationally recognised food safety management system.

The implementation of HACCP systems allows businesses to identify, evaluate and control the hazards that pose risk to food safety.

Is HACCP compliance a legal obligation?

Article 5 of Regulation (EC) No 852/2004 states that ‘Food business operators shall put in place, implement and maintain a permanent procedure based on the codex HACCP principles’. From 2006, this became mandatory.

What are the HACCP procedures?

1. Conduct a hazard analysis
2. Determine the Critical Control Points (CCP)
3. Identify critical limits
4. Establish a system to monitor control of the CCP
5. Determine corrective action
6. Establish procedures for verification to confirm the system is working
7. Create documentation

What are the HACCP prerequisites?

HACCP prerequisites are the fundamental control measures needed in order to produce safe food. The number of prerequisites will differ depending on the business, but must be in place before a full HACCP system can be implemented.

What are the benefits of HACCP implementation?

By implementing food safety procedures, you are protecting your business from costly food safety accidents, recalls, legal action and business reputation.

Who uses HACCP?

A wide range of food businesses including food catering, food retail and food manufacturing businesses. As an internationally recognised standard, HACCP systems are adopted in countries all over the world.

What is a HACCP plan?

A HACCP plan is essential in ensuring your safety systems work effectively. The HACCP plan can either be linear or modular. A linear HACCP plan involves creating a plan for each product in which you can track the product from start to finish. A modular HACCP plan involves tracking each stage of the food production process.

How often does HACCP need to be reviewed?

HACCP processes should be reviewed whenever there has been a change to the process, equipment or components used. As well as in the case of a food safety breach such as food poisoning or product recall. In general, food safety management systems should be reviewed regularly – at least annually.

How long should HACCP records be kept?

The amount of time you need to store reports will differ depending on what’s appropriate for your business. There is no legal requirement for HACCP report storage.

Do HACCP certificates expire?

There is no expiry date on HACCP certificates but it is advised you refresh your training every 3 years to stay updated on laws and procedures.

For more information on HACCP compliance, enter an enquiry below or contact us directly on 08450 267 745.