HACCP

Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) techniques are increasingly being used in the food industry and are become a universally accepted method for food safety assurance. The UK's Food Standards Agency recommends HACCP as the most effective way for food businesses to ensure consumer protection.

Increasingly companies within the food chain must be able to demonstrate an effective HACCP system, depending on varying local and national requirements. Meeting local food hygiene regulations and applying hazard analysis techniques, such as HACCP, add to what may already seem to be a complex and daunting process for those in the food chain. However, taking a formalised approach to assuring food safety helps a company to demonstrate commitment by meeting the demands of legislation and customers and may support a due diligence defence.

The HACCP principles developed by the Codex Alimentarius of the World Health Organisation demand that effective food safety systems are established through the application of systematic approach to hazard and risk analysis.