How Often Should a HACCP Plan Be Reviewed and Updated?

A HACCP plan is not a “set it and forget it” document. Food safety hazards evolve, processes change, and regulations tighten. To stay compliant and effective, companies must review and update their HACCP plan regularly.

So, how often should this really happen? Let’s break it down.

✅ Standard Requirements for HACCP Plan Review

• Annually (Minimum Requirement)

  • Most industry guidelines and auditors expect at least one full review every 12 months.

  • Annual reviews ensure your plan reflects current processes and hazards.

• Regulatory Expectations

  • Local food authorities may mandate scheduled reviews.

  • GFSI-recognized standards (FSSC 22000, SQF, BRCGS) also require documented review cycles.

• Customer & Retailer Demands

  • Large retailers may require proof of regular HACCP reviews during supplier audits.

  • More frequent reviews can strengthen buyer confidence.

📌 Situations That Require Immediate HACCP Plan Updates

• Changes in Raw Materials or Suppliers

  • New ingredient or packaging material.

  • Switching to a different supplier with varying specifications.

• Process or Equipment Modifications

  • Installation of new machinery.

  • Layout redesign in production or storage areas.

  • Changes in cooking, chilling, or packaging methods.

• Product Launches or Reformulations

  • Introducing a new product line.

  • Reformulating recipes (e.g., allergens, additives).

• Shift in Regulations or Standards

  • Updates to Codex HACCP guidelines.

  • New ISO 22000 or FSSC 22000 versions.

  • Local regulatory changes in labeling or food safety limits.

• Non-Conformities or Food Safety Incidents

  • Customer complaints linked to safety.

  • Detection of hazards during verification or audit.

  • Product recalls or near-miss situations.

• Staffing and Operational Changes

  • High turnover of HACCP team members.

  • Outsourcing certain production steps.

• Seasonal Variations

  • Seasonal ingredients with higher risk profiles.

  • Changes in storage or transportation conditions.

🚀 Best Practices for HACCP Plan Reviews

• Schedule annual reviews as a minimum.

• Document all reviews — even if no changes are made.

• Train HACCP team members on when and how to trigger a review.

• Use a review checklist to ensure hazards, CCPs, PRPs, and monitoring remain accurate.

• Integrate reviews into management review meetings.

• Involve cross-functional teams (QA, production, maintenance, procurement).

⚠️ Risks of Not Reviewing HACCP Regularly

• Outdated CCPs that no longer match the actual process flow.

• Increased risk of recalls and regulatory penalties.

• Weak audit performance and possible certification loss.

• Reduced customer trust and supplier approval failures.

Final Takeaway

👉 Your HACCP plan should be reviewed at least once a year — but updated anytime significant changes occur.
A proactive review process keeps your system compliant, effective, and trusted by auditors, regulators, and customers alike.