HACCP
HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) program, a range of SOPs are essential to ensure compliance with food safety standards and effective implementation. Below are the types of SOPs typically required for a HACCP program:
HACCP Plan Development SOP
Purpose: Guide the process of developing, reviewing, and updating the HACCP plan.
- Identification of product description and intended use.
- Development of flow diagrams for production processes.
- Hazard analysis for biological, chemical, and physical hazards.
- Establishment of CCPs (Critical Control Points) and monitoring procedures.
Hazard Analysis SOP
Purpose: Conduct and document the hazard analysis as the first step in HACCP implementation.
- Identification of potential hazards at each step of the process.
- Evaluation of severity and likelihood of hazards.
- Determination of hazards requiring control.
Critical Control Point (CCP) Monitoring SOP
Purpose: Ensure monitoring of CCPs to maintain control over hazards.
- Specific monitoring activities (e.g., time, temperature, pH).
- Frequency and methods of monitoring.
- Personnel responsible for monitoring.
- Record-keeping for all CCP checks.
Corrective Actions SOP
Establish procedures for corrective actions when critical limits are breached at CCPs.
- Steps to identify the issue and restore control.
- Procedures for handling affected products.
- Documentation of actions taken and review of system effectiveness.
Verification SOP
Purpose: Guide the verification process to ensure the HACCP system is working as intended.
- Regular review of HACCP plan and procedures.
- Calibration of monitoring equipment.
- Verification activities like testing, audits, or sampling.
- Frequency of verification and responsibilities.
Record Keeping SOP
Purpose: Ensure accurate and complete documentation of all HACCP-related activities.
- Formats for recording monitoring, corrective actions, and verification.
- Retention policies for HACCP documentation.
- Access control and data protection for records.
Employee Training SOP
Purpose: Ensure all personnel involved in food safety are properly trained in HACCP principles and procedures.
- Identification of employees requiring training.
- Frequency of training sessions (initial and refresher).
- Documentation of training and competency assessments.
Sanitation SOP (SSOP)
Purpose: Maintain sanitation controls to support the HACCP program and prevent contamination.
- Cleaning and sanitation procedures for equipment and facilities.
- Frequency and responsible personnel for sanitation tasks.
- Use of cleaning agents and sanitation validation methods.
Supplier Control SOP
Purpose: Provide guidance on managing non-conformances identified during internal audits.
- Criteria for supplier selection and approval.
- Incoming material inspections.
- Documentation of supplier audits and performance reviews.
Product Recall SOP
Purpose: Outline procedures for recalling products in case of safety concerns.
- Criteria for initiating a recall.
- Roles and responsibilities during a recall.
- Notification procedures for customers, regulators, and the public.
- Recall documentation and effectiveness checks.
Allergen Control SOP
Purpose: Prevent cross-contact with allergens and manage allergen risks.
- Identification of allergenic ingredients.
- Procedures for handling and storing allergens.
- Cleaning and sanitation practices to prevent cross-contamination.
- Labeling requirements for allergens.
Preventive Maintenance SOP
Purpose: Ensure that equipment and infrastructure are maintained to prevent food safety risks.
- Maintenance schedules for critical equipment.
- Record-keeping of maintenance activities.
- Corrective maintenance procedures in case of failure.
Internal Audit SOP
Purpose: Define internal audit processes for evaluating the effectiveness of the HACCP
- Scheduling and scope of internal audits.
- Auditor qualifications and independence.
- Reporting and addressing audit findings.
- Follow-up on corrective actions.
Storage and Distribution SOP
Purpose: Ensure that finished products are stored and distributed under appropriate conditions to prevent contamination or deterioration.
- Storage conditions (temperature, humidity, etc.).
- Product rotation (FIFO or FEFO).
- Shipping practices to maintain product integrity.
- Monitoring of storage and transport conditions.