What is a HACCP Plan?
Food safety is always evolving and becoming more complex, as companies require constant updating with safety regulations and industry trends. Before discussing what a HACCP Plan is, let’s talk about the importance of Food Safety Training. According to Health Canada, an average of four million cases of foodborne illness occur every year, over 11,000 Canadians are hospitalized, and more than 200 people die. Food safety incidents are serious and should not be taken lightly. The solution to reducing and preventing such negative consequences is proper food safety training. HACCP Certification and Food Handler’s certification are two methods to ensure food safety procedures are put into place.
What is the Importance of your HACCP Plan?
Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points is a system that establishes safety guidelines in all stages of food production and processing. HACCP Plan Certification analyzes and manages physical, chemical, and biological hazards in food production and handling, all the way up to distribution and consumption of the food products.
There are 7 principles of HACCP Plan certification that ensure food products are consumed as safely as possible.
To be reputable and trustworthy, this certification is expected in any organization that is involved in the food production business. In countries like Canada and the USA, HACCP Plan Certification is mandatory and annually audited. Overall, this prevents risks that can lead to severe financial, legal, and health consequences.
What is the Importance of the Food Handler’s Certification?
For many of us, food handling practices are considered common sense, as they are such a frequent occurrence in everyday life. However, “common sense” is not on par with the level of professionalism required to serve food products to the public.
The majority of food-borne illnesses are caused by food-handling mistakes, improper food preparation, mishandling equipment, and poor personal hygiene. A Food Handler’s Certificate ensures front line workers must:
- Understand how food becomes contaminated
- Understand causes of food-borne illness
- Know how to store, prepare, cook, and serve food
- Know how to clean equipment, supplies, and surroundings
Obtaining a Food Handler’s certificate ensures the knowledge and skills are acquired to handle food safely at a higher standard. There are also numerous benefits that a Food Hander’s certificate can serve:
- Protect the business reputation
- Prevent customer complaints and media scrutiny
- Reduce unnecessary operational costs such as pest control and food wastage
Avoid legal fines or business closures.
Why is Food Safety Training Essential?
The HACCP Plan and the Food Handler’s Certificate are important in today’s food industry, as consumers demand higher quality, and government agencies are critical in food safety measures. Food safety training is essential as it is mandatory in many countries. Legal and financial penalties can occur if companies and workers fail to obtain training. Quality Smart Solutions delivers high-end training and consultation to help your business grow and comply with industry safety standards. To find out more on our services, do not hesitate to contact us.
