How Often Should a HACCP Plan Be Reviewed or Updated?
A HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) plan is not a one-time document. It’s a living system that must evolve as your food business grows, changes, or faces new risks.
Failing to review your HACCP plan regularly can lead to non-compliance, unsafe food, and even legal penalties.
So, how often should your HACCP plan be reviewed or updated?
Let’s break it down.
✅ General Rule: Review Annually
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Most authorities recommend a minimum of once a year
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Helps ensure the plan is still relevant to your current processes and products
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Required by many certification bodies (e.g., GMP, ISO 22000, FSSC 22000)
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Annual review should be documented and include management sign-off
📌 When Should You Update the HACCP Plan?
Besides annual reviews, you must also update your HACCP plan whenever there are significant changes:
🔄 Operational Changes
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Introduction of new products or recipes
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Changes in processing methods or equipment
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Alteration in packaging material or format
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Relocation of processing lines or production layout
🚚 Supplier or Ingredient Changes
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Change in raw material specifications
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New ingredient sources or suppliers
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Variations in packaging suppliers that may affect food safety
🧑🍳 Personnel Changes
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New HACCP team members
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Change in management or food safety roles
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Hiring of new food handlers without updated training
🧪 Results of Monitoring or Testing
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CCPs frequently out of control
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Customer complaints or food safety incidents
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Results from internal audits or third-party inspections
⚖️ Regulatory or Standard Updates
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New or updated local food safety regulations (e.g., from MOH Malaysia)
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Changes in certification standards (e.g., ISO, GFSI schemes)
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Updates to Codex Alimentarius guidelines
🔍 What Should Be Reviewed During the HACCP Plan Review?
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Accuracy of the flow diagram
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Re-evaluation of all hazards at each step
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Effectiveness of CCPs and their monitoring methods
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Up-to-date critical limits
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Records of corrective actions and verification results
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Training records for staff and HACCP team members
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Customer feedback and complaint trends
🛠️ Tips for a Successful Review
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Use a checklist to guide the review process
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Involve a qualified HACCP team with relevant expertise
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Keep a record of all review dates, findings, and updates made
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Set up a calendar reminder for your next annual review
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Seek guidance from a food safety consultant if you’re unsure
🧩 Final Thoughts
A HACCP plan isn’t a “set it and forget it” system.
It must be actively maintained to reflect the real conditions of your business.
Regular reviews protect your customers, reduce your risks, and help you stay audit- and inspection-ready all year round.
Need help reviewing or updating your HACCP plan?
Let CAYS Scientific assist you with expert guidance tailored for small and medium food businesses in Malaysia.
