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Food Safety

Who Controls HACCP

By March 21, 2025No Comments

Who Controls HACCP?

Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) is a globally recognized food safety management system designed to prevent hazards in food production. But who controls HACCP, and how is it regulated?

Key Authorities Controlling HACCP

1. International Organizations

  • Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) – Develops international HACCP guidelines under the World Health Organization (WHO) and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
  • Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) – Recognizes HACCP as part of food safety standards like FSSC 22000, BRCGS, and SQF.

2. National Food Safety Authorities

Each country has regulatory agencies enforcing HACCP compliance:

  • United States – Food and Drug Administration (FDA) & United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulate HACCP for food processors and meat industries.
  • European Union (EU) – European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) mandates HACCP for all food businesses.
  • United Kingdom (UK) – Food Standards Agency (FSA) ensures HACCP compliance.
  • Canada – Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) enforces HACCP in food processing.
  • Australia & New Zealand – Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) oversees HACCP rules.

3. Industry-Specific Regulations

  • Meat & Poultry – USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) requires HACCP for meat, poultry, and egg products.
  • Seafood – FDA’s Seafood HACCP Regulation (21 CFR 123) applies to fish and shellfish processors.
  • Dairy – HACCP-based regulations apply to milk processing plants.
  • Retail & Catering – Restaurants, hotels, and food service providers follow HACCP under local health departments.

4. Third-Party Certification Bodies

  • ISO 22000 Certification Bodies – Ensure HACCP compliance in food businesses.
  • GFSI-Recognized Auditors – Certify businesses under FSSC 22000, BRCGS, SQF, and IFS.
  • Independent Auditors – Conduct HACCP audits for compliance verification.

5. Company Responsibility

  • Food manufacturers must implement and maintain HACCP plans.
  • HACCP teams within organizations monitor critical control points (CCPs).
  • Internal audits and documentation ensure compliance with regulatory and certification requirements.

Conclusion: HACCP is Controlled by Multiple Authorities

HACCP is managed by international organizations, national food safety agencies, industry regulators, third-party auditors, and businesses themselves. Compliance with HACCP ensures food safety, regulatory approval, and consumer protection.

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