(World Health Organization) FAO WHO Guidance To Go HACCP

ISSN 0254-4725
FAO/WHO guidance
to governments on the
application of HACCP
in small and/or
less-developed food
businesses
FAO
FOOD AND
NUTRITION
PAPER
86
Food and Agriculture

Organization of
the United Nations
CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
CONTRIBUTORS
vii
ix
Participants in the electronic discussion

Participants in the Expert Meeting
Peer reviewers
Authors of case study summaries
Joint FAO/WHO Secretariat
xii
xiii
ACRONYMS
FOREWORD
1.
INTRODUCTION
1.1
1.2
1.3
2.
Background
FAO/WHO guidance document
1
1
1.2.1
1.2.2
1.2.3
1.2.4
1.2.5
1
2
2
2
3
Objectives
Scope
Descriptive terms
Target audience
Document overview
The HACCP system
1.3.1
1.3.2
1.3.3
1.3.4
1.3.5
1.3.6
4
4
6
7
7
The food safety burden

Codex guidelines on HACCP
Role of government and potential benefits
Role of food businesses and potential benefits
Exploring approaches for HACCP in SLDBs
Interdependency between HACCP systems and good
hygienic practices
THE SMALL BUSINESS SECTOR AND CHALLENGES FACED WORLDWIDE
2.1
2.2
2.3
ix
ix
x
x
xi
8
9
Challenges within the food business
10
2.1.1
2.1.2
10
10
Infrastructure and facilities

Basic hygiene
Staff-related challenges
11
2.2.1
2.2.2
2.2.3
2.2.4
2.2.5
11
11
12
12
12
Awareness and expertise

Education and training
Technical support
Human resources
Psychological factors
Challenges due to inadequate supporting environment
13
2.3.1
13
Financial issues
iii
2.3.2
2.3.3
2.3.4
2.3.5
2.3.6
3.
13
13
14
14
15
DEVELOPMENT OF A HACCP STRATEGY FOR SLDBS WITHIN A NATIONAL FOOD

SAFETY POLICY
17
3.1
3.2
Introduction
Development of strategy for HACCP implementation
17
18
3.2.1
3.2.2
3.2.3
3.2.4
3.2.5
3.2.6
3.2.7
3.2.8
19
21
22
22
23
23
23
24
3.3
4.
Government infrastructure and commitment

Legal requirements
Business awareness and attitude of industry and trade associations
Customer awareness
Communication
Gather information
Define barriers and identify causes
Develop and select possible solutions
Draft strategy and consult widely
Conduct assessment of potential impact of strategy
Modify and publish strategy
Implement strategy
Review and revise as needed
Criteria for measuring success of strategy
25
3.3.1
3.3.2
25
26
How to measure HACCP implementation

Indicators of successful HACCP implementation
STRATEGIC ACTIVITIES TO FACILITATE HACCP IMPLEMENTATION IN SLDBS
27
4.1
Support activities
27
4.1.1
4.1.2
4.1.3
4.1.4
4.1.5
4.1.6
4.1.7
27
29
30
31
32
33
34
4.2
Provision of financial support

Provision of guidance and explanatory information
Provision of HACCP training
Voluntary schemes
Mandatory provisions and enforcement
HACCP certification
Provision of technical expertise by consultants and other advisors
HACCP-based approaches
36
4.2.1
4.2.2
4.2.3
37
37
39
Codes and standards documents

Generic HACCP-based plans
Evolving HACCP-based methodologies
REFERENCES
41
iv
ANNEX 1
ANNEX 2
OVERVIEW OF NATIONAL APPROACHES TO FACILITATE HACCP

APPLICATION IN SLDBS
45
Brazil
Cameroon
Canada
India
Ireland
Japan
Mexico
The Netherlands
New Zealand
South Africa
Thailand
United Kingdom
45
47
48
50
52
53
55
57
59
62
65
67
THE SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF HACCP AND SPECIFIC

STRATEGIC ACTIVITIES IN SLDBS
71
Principle 1
Principle 2
Principle 3
Principle 4
Principle 5
Principle 6
Principle 7
Conduct a hazard analysis

Determine the Critical Control Points (CCPs)
Establish critical limit(s)
Establish a system to monitor control of the CCP
Establish the corrective action to be taken when
monitoring indicates that a particular CCP is not
under control
Establish procedures for verification to confirm that
the HACCP system is working effectively
Establish documentation concerning all procedures
and records appropriate to these principles and their
application
71
72
72
72
73
73
74
LIST OF FIGURES
1.
2.
3.
Logical sequence for the application of HACCP

Government policy and strategies
Logical sequence for development of strategy for HACCP implementation
5
18
20
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health
Organization (WHO) would like to express their appreciation to all those who contributed to the
preparation of the Guidelines through the generous provision of their time and expertise. The
Guidelines were prepared by the Food Quality and Standards Service of FAO, in collaboration
with the Department of Food Safety, Zoonoses and Foodborne Diseases of WHO. Other units
in FAO provided comments and suggestions which are gratefully recognized.
The first draft of the document was prepared by Wayne Anderson, Food Safety Authority of
Ireland, in collaboration with FAO and WHO. This provided the basis for discussion at the
expert meeting convened by the Joint FAO/WHO Secretariat, which comprised Ezzeddine
Boutrif, Maria de Lourdes Costarrica and Mary Kenny of FAO, and Jaap Jansen of WHO.
The Guidelines were further enhanced by the comments received through the peer review
process, the inclusion of the country summaries, and notes on compliance with specific HACCP
steps, submitted by a number of experts from different parts of the world.
Publication of the Guidelines was coordinated by Mary Kenny and Maria de Lourdes Costarrica.
The Guidelines were edited by Ruth Duffy.
vii
CONTRIBUTORS
PARTICIPANTS IN THE ELECTRONIC DISCUSSION
Stella Maris Alzamora, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina

Wayne Anderson, Food Safety Authority of Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
Hans Beelen, Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority, the Hague, the Netherlands
Jenny Bishop, formerly New Zealand Food Safety Authority and the New Zealand Ministry of
Health, Wellington, New Zealand
Alfred Bungay, Inspection Systems and HACCP, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Ottawa,
Canada
Linus Gedi, Small Industries Development Organization, Dar es Salaam, United Republic of
Tanzania
Suwimon Keeratipibul, Food Industry Group, Federation of Thai Industries, Associate
Professor, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
Jairo E. Romeiro Torres, Colombian Association of Food Science, Bogot D.C., Colombia
Surendra Shrivastava, Ministry of Agriculture, India
Antonio Tavares da Silva, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro/DTA, Rio de Janeiro,
Brazil
Eunice Taylor, International Centre for HACCP Innovation, Salford University, Manchester,
United Kingdom
PARTICIPANTS IN THE EXPERT MEETING1
Wayne Anderson, Food Safety Authority of Ireland, Dublin, Ireland

Lucia Anelich, Biotechnology and Food Technology, Tshwane University of Technology,
Pretoria, South Africa
Alfred Bungay, Inspection Systems and HACCP, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Ottawa,
Canada
Tony Chamberlain, Marine Studies Program, University of the South Pacific, Suva, Fiji
Andrew Greaves, HACCP Project, Food Hygiene Implementation Division, Food Standards
Agency, United Kingdom
Suwimon Keeratipibul, Food Industry Group, Federation of Thai Industries, Associate
Professor, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
1 FAO/WHO Technical Meeting on the Application of the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) System in Small
and/or Less Developed Businesses (SLDBs), Rome, Italy, 13-15 December 2004.
ix
Arvind Patil, Export Inspection Agency, Chennai, India

Eng. Rima H. Zumot, Food Control Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, Jordan
Jairo E. Romero Torres, Food Safety Program, Colombian Association of Food Science,
Bogot D.C., Colombia
Antonio Tavares da Silva, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro/DTA, Rio de Janeiro,
Brazil
Eunice Taylor, International Centre for HACCP Innovation, Salford University, Manchester,
United Kingdom
PEER REVIEWERS
Jenny Bishop, formerly New Zealand Food Safety Authority and the New Zealand Ministry of
Health, Wellington, New Zealand
Nourredine Bouchriti, Department of Hygiene and Food Industries of Animal Origin, Institut
Agronomique et Vtrinaire, Rabat, Morocco
Jean Louis Jouve, Consultant, Paris, France
Jose Luis Flores Luna, Comisin Federal para la Proteccin Contra Riesgos Sanitarios
(COFEPRIS), Mexico D.F., Mexico
Georges Okala, Sub-Department of Food and Nutrition, Ministry of Public Health, Yaounde,
Cameroon
Chris Pratt, Food Hygiene Policy and Legislation Unit, Food Standards Agency, London, United
Kingdom
Rafael Jordano Salinas, University of Crdoba, Spain
Sashi Sareen, Export Inspection Council of India, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, New
Delhi, India
Bruce Tompkin, Consultant, Illinois, United States of America
AUTHORS OF CASE STUDY SUMMARIES
Brazil: Vladmir Favalli, National Health Surveillance Agency, Brasilia

Canada: Alfred Bungay, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Ottawa
Cameroon: Georges Okala, Ministry of Public Health, Yaounde
India: Sashi Sareen, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, New Delhi
Ireland: Wayne Anderson, Food Safety Authority of Ireland, Dublin
Japan: Hajime Toyofuku, National Institute of Health Sciences, Tokyo
Mexico: Jose Luis Flores Luna, Comisin Federal para la Proteccin Contra Riesgos Sanitarios
(COFEPRIS)
Netherlands: J.F.M. (Hans) Beuger, Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority, Den
Haag
New Zealand: Jenny Bishop, formerly New Zealand Food Safety Authority and the New
Zealand Ministry of Health
South Africa: Lucia Anelich, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria
Thailand: Suwimon Keeratipibul, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok
United Kingdom: Eunice Taylor, Salford University, Manchester
JOINT FAO/WHO SECRETARIAT
Ezzeddine Boutrif, Chief, Food Quality and Standards Service, FAO

Maria de Lourdes Costarrica, Senior Officer, Food Quality and Standards Service, FAO
Jaap Jansen, Scientist, Department of Food Safety, Zoonoses and Food-borne Diseases, WHO
Mary Kenny, Nutrition Officer, Food Quality and Standards Service, FAO
xi
ACRONYMS
BRC
British Retail Consortium
CCFH
Codex Committee on Food Hygiene
CCP
Critical Control Point
EFSIS
European Food Safety Inspection Service
FAO
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
GAP
Good Agricultural Practice
GDP
Gross Domestic Product
GHP
Good Hygienic Practice
GLP
Good Laboratory Practice
GMO
Genetically modified organism
GMP
Good Manufacturing Practice
GRAS
Generally Recognized As Safe
HACCP
Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (System)
OAS
Organization of American States
OECD
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
QA
Quality Assurance
SACNASP
South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions
SLDB
Small and/or Less-Developed Business
SPS Agreement
Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures
SQF
Safe Quality Food
SSOP
Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures
TBT Agreement
Agreement on the Technical Barriers to Trade
USDA
United States Department of Agriculture
WHO
World Health Organization
WTO
World Trade Organization
xii
FOREWORD
The Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) system was introduced approximately
20 years ago as a means to control food-related hazards. It has become increasingly important at
national and international levels. It is widely recognized that good hygienic practices (GHPs)
form the basis or an integral part of HACCP. Over the years, governments and food businesses
have gained a wealth of experience in the application of GHP/HACCP and many lessons have
been learned.
HACCP or HACCP-based systems (including good hygienic practices) are important for all food
businesses along the food chain. However, in some countries HACCP has been most successfully
introduced in large food businesses supplying export markets perhaps because the adoption of
HACCP systems is sometimes a basic requirement in major international food markets.
Nevertheless, governments increasingly acknowledge that small and/or less developed businesses
(SLDBs) provide an important source of food and contribute to the national economy, and the
importance of consumer protection applies equally to all food businesses.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health
Organization (WHO) support the continual development of national policies to improve food
safety and quality with the overall objective of protecting consumers health and furthering
economic development. This document provides guidance to governments and relevant
stakeholders and proposes the development of national HACCP strategies to include the
implementation of HACCP systems in SLDBs.
Worldwide, SLDBs present diverse and sometimes very complex challenges to ensuring food
safety. Language, illiteracy and cultural differences may be more difficult to overcome in one
country than in another. On the other hand, many challenges to small and medium-sized
businesses are similar, irrespective of geographical location: lack of resources (time, labour and
financial) and lack of technical expertise.
This document is designed to assist national food safety authorities in the development of a
HACCP strategy for SLDBs within a national food safety policy. It is the product of collective
national and international experience. Wherever possible, examples of national approaches are
provided. While acknowledging the barriers facing SLDBs in their attempts to implement
HACCP systems, approaches to addressing these barriers that have been tried and tested around
the world are presented. The objective is to provide FAO/WHO member countries and relevant
stakeholders with practical solutions for the implementation of HACCP in SLDBs.
xiii
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND
The principles of the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) system have been
adopted by the Codex Alimentarius Commission and guidelines to its application are provided in
an Annex to the General Principles of Food Hygiene (FAO and WHO, 2003). During
consideration of the draft HACCP standard (Rev. 3) at the 22nd session of the Codex
Alimentarius Commission (ALINORM 97/37, para. 34), some delegations expressed their
concern that difficulties might be encountered in applying the HACCP system in small businesses
and in developing countries. Subsequently, the matter of barriers to HACCP application in small
and/or less developed businesses (SLDBs)2 was extensively debated in the Codex Committee on
Food Hygiene (CCFH) between 1997 and 2003 (CCFH, 1997-2001 and 2003). A joint Food and
Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and World Health Organization (WHO)
expert consultation in 1998 (WHO, 1998) and a WHO expert consultation in 1999 (WHO, 1999)
both addressed aspects of this topic.
At the 35th Session of the Codex Committee on Food Hygiene in 2003, it was agreed that FAO
and WHO would develop HACCP guidelines for SLDBs, highlighting potential obstacles and
approaches to overcome them. This request from member countries arose during the
deliberations over the revision of the Recommended International Code of Practice: General
Principles of Food Hygiene, including the Annex on "HACCP and Guidelines for its
Application" (FAO and WHO, 1993).
In 2004, FAO/WHO convened an electronic discussion group of experts with experience in this
field to exchange views and share information. The inputs were considered by FAO and WHO in
collaboration with Dr Wayne Anderson, Food Safety Authority of Ireland, who prepared the first
draft of the guidelines on the request of both organizations.
The draft was discussed and developed further at an expert meeting convened by FAO and
WHO in Rome from 13 to 15 December 2004; prior to finalization, it was subject to a peer
review process.
These guidelines aim to fulfil the Codex request and to provide the member states of the CCFH
with practical solutions for the implementation of the HACCP system in SLDBs.
1.2 FAO/WHO GUIDANCE DOCUMENT
1.2.1 Objectives
This document aims to assist in the development of national policy, strategies and action plans
aimed at improving food safety and trade through the application of HACCP in SLDBs
throughout the world. It identifies the barriers to the application of HACCP in SLDBs and
The term "SLDB" was adopted by CCFH in 1999. A full definition is given in Chapter 2 on p. 9.
FAO/WHO guidance to governments on the application of HACCP in small and/or less-developed food businesses
provides solutions based on the experience of experts in their respective countries. In this regard,
flexible approaches to the implementation of HACCP are described.
1.2.2 Scope
Approaches that could be adopted by national governments to improve food safety and trade by
facilitating HACCP application in SLDBs are elaborated herein. The needs of larger, more
technically advanced food businesses are not specifically considered, although this document
could also be applied to them. The information provided is applicable to SLDBs engaged in food
processing and preparation, distribution and storage, wholesale, retail and catering activities.
Although not specifically aimed at primary food production (animal husbandry and on-farm
activities), it could also be of assistance to governments applying HACCP-based systems at farm
level.
Appropriate activities are presented for use by national governments in the development of
national policy, strategy and action plans. The aim is not to directly provide solutions to SLDBs
for implementing HACCP in their food businesses. However, adaptations of the Codex HACCP
system used by national governments are presented briefly for further research by interested
parties. It is stressed that the solutions provided need to be adopted and tailored, taking into
account national circumstances: no single solution is the optimum choice in all situations.
1.2.3 Descriptive terms
For the purposes of this document, the following terms were agreed:
Good hygienic practices:
All practices regarding the conditions and measures necessary to

3
ensure the safety and suitability of food at all stages of the food chain.
Codex HACCP system:
A system which identifies, evaluates and controls hazards which are

significant for food safety, described in the Annex to the Codex General
Principles of Food Hygiene (FAO and WHO, 2003).
HACCP-based system:
A system that is consistent with the seven principles of HACCP but

does not conform to the layout or steps of the Guidelines for the
Application of the Codex HACCP system.
Food Safety Management System:
A holistic system of controls that manage food safety in a food

business. Includes GHPs, the HACCP system, management policies
and traceability/recall systems.
1.2.4 Target audience
The guidance document is for use by governments developing national policy aimed at the
application of HACCP in SLDBs, and by professionals advising on national policy development
(e.g. government officials, food industry associations, consultants, auditors, trainers/education
3 The term "good hygienic practices" is based on the definition of food hygiene documented in the Codex General Principles of
Food Hygiene (CAC/RCP 1 1969, Rev. 4 [2003]). For consistency, the term GHPs is used throughout the document,
recognizing that in some countries other terms, such as "prerequisite programmes", "GMPs" (good manufacturing practices) or
"SSOPs" (Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures) may be used.
1. Introduction
specialists). However, it may also be of use to other groups of people, for example, food business
managers and food enforcement officers.
1.2.5 Document overview
The underlying principles and the broad logic upon which the guidance has been developed are
as follows:
x
x
x
Together with GHP, HACCP is recognized as an appropriate and useful tool for enhancing
the safety of food products and providing adequate food safety assurance.
HACCP is for use by all food businesses; however, SLDBs experience a number of
constraints which can make HACCP implementation difficult.
There is a greater uptake of HACCP (and hence improved controls) in larger food businesses
often involved in the export market.
Food businesses play a vital role in adopting food safety management systems and are a key
stakeholder in food safety policy development.
In addition to the action taken by the food businesses themselves, governments are
responsible for creating a scientific, technical and financial environment favourable to
HACCP implementation, with specific consideration for SLDBs.
Government interventions are best developed within the overall framework of a national
HACCP strategy, implemented through a planned process. A comprehensive strategy covers
all types of food business and pays specific attention to the needs of SLDBs.
Involvement of relevant partners in the development of this strategy is essential.
Government support through a HACCP strategy is especially important where SLDBs are
concerned. Effective implementation of the strategy requires a number of support activities
as well as the development of specific guidance for HACCP application.
On the basis of these concepts, the document is organized as follows:

x
Chapter 1 provides the historical background and a summary of the work of the Codex
Alimentarius Commission on HACCP. It presents the scope and targeted audience and
describes the roles of government and food businesses with respect to HACCP
implementation, with GHPs as an integral component.
Chapter 2 comments on the specifics of the small business sector and the challenges faced in
the application of HACCP. The text is based on the experiences of member countries as
raised in the Codex Committee on Food Hygiene and includes challenges faced by SLDBs:
within the food business;
related to staff; and
resulting from an inadequate supporting environment.
Chapter 3 outlines the steps proposed for the development of a HACCP strategy within a
national food safety policy. The criteria for measuring the success of the strategy are
discussed.
Chapter 4 outlines a number of strategic activities to facilitate HACCP implementation in

SLDBs, including overall support activities (e.g. financial, guidance materials, training,
regulatory requirements) and the development of HACCP-based approaches.
Annex 1 gives examples of approaches taken in a number of countries to facilitate HACCP

implementation, with particular consideration for SLDBs.
Annex 2 provides information on how the seven principles of HACCP can be implemented
in a specific SLDB environment.
1.3 THE HACCP SYSTEM

1.3.1 The food safety burden
Data from WHO suggest that food-borne disease (together with water) is a significant
contributor to mortality from diarrhoeal disease (2.1 million deaths in 2000). Each year, foodborne disease causes an estimated 76 million illnesses, 325 000 hospitalizations and 5 000 deaths
in the United States of America, and 2 366 000 cases, 21 138 hospitalizations and 718 deaths in
England and Wales (Adak et al., 2005; Mead et al., 1999). A recent OECD (Organisation for
Economic Co-operation and Development) report assumed that the burden of food-borne
disease is probably similar in most OECD countries. Many countries, including developing
countries, lack strong surveillance and reporting systems and therefore statistical estimates are not
available. Furthermore, food-borne disease often goes unreported, with the result that the
economic and health impacts are greater than the figures suggest in many countries.
Improvements in the protection of public health rely on improvements in the safety of food. In
this regard, governments, the food industry and consumers have a shared responsibility to adopt
the best practices for the control of food safety hazards.
1.3.2 Codex Guidelines on HACCP
The Codex HACCP system (FAO and WHO, 2003) has several features that characterize it.
Seven basic HACCP principles are established and then elaborated into a logical sequence of
12 steps for implementation (Figure 1). Guidance in the form of a decision tree is provided for
the identification of critical control points (CCPs), and an example of a HACCP worksheet
demonstrates a possible layout for a documented plan. The HACCP system should not be
implemented until a food business is operating in accordance with good hygienic practices
(GHPs) and in compliance with appropriate food safety requirements. It should be noted,
however, that the Codex HACCP system is the written product of experience gained in the
application of HACCP systems in large and relatively technically sophisticated food businesses.
Some governments implement the Codex system according to the 12 steps defined in the
guidelines, while others develop or promote systems encompassing the seven principles, without
following the 12-step process. Further flexibility is rare, given that the Codex HACCP system is
the reference standard in international trade disputes.
1. Introduction
FIGURE 1
Logical sequence for the application of HACCP
1. Assemble HACCP team
2. Describe product
3. Identify intended use
4. Construct flow diagram
5. On-site confirmation of flow diagram
6. List all potential hazards

Conduct a hazard analysis
Consider control measures
7. Determine CCPs
8. Establish critical limits for each CCP
9. Establish a monitoring system for each CCP
10. Establish corrective actions
11. Establish verification procedures
12. Establish documentation and record keeping
Source: FAO and WHO, 2003, p. 42.
The most recent version (Rev. 4, 2003) of the Codex HACCP System and Guidelines for its
Application includes amendments addressing issues relating specifically to SLDBs. Examples are:
x
Assemble HACCP team (Step 1)

Where such expertise is not available on site, expert advice should be obtained from
other sources, such as, trade and industry associations, independent experts, regulatory
authorities, HACCP literature and HACCP guidance.
Describe product (Step 2)

Within businesses with multiple products, for example, catering operations, it may be
effective to group products with similar characteristics or processing steps, for the
purpose of development of the HACCP plan.
Establish documentation and record keeping (Step 12)

Expertly developed HACCP guidance materials (e.g. sector-specific HACCP guides)
may be utilised as part of the documentation, provided that those materials reflect the
specific food operations of the business.
A simple record-keeping system can be effective and easily communicated to employees.
It may be integrated into existing operations and may use existing paperwork, such as
delivery invoices and checklists to record, for example, product temperatures.
While these improvements provide added flexibility, it is unlikely that they are sufficient to enable
SLDBs to implement HACCP; further supporting initiatives are required to address the obstacles
faced by SLDBs.
This document emphasizes the use of the HACCP principles as a means to assure the safety of
food; however, the concept can be applied to other aspects of food quality.
1.3.3 Role of government and potential benefits
The role of governments goes beyond adopting and monitoring compliance with national food
legislation: they should actively promote food safety measures through the adoption of food
safety management systems such as HACCP. The success with which food businesses establish
and implement HACCP may be directly related to the supporting environment created by the
government, including alliances with food businesses; this is particularly true in the case of
SLDBs. SLDBs face very significant challenges when adopting HACCP, and active intervention
by the government is required. In most countries, the SLDB sector accounts for a substantial part
of the food industry, makes an important contribution to the national food supply and is an
important source of employment contributing to the local economy. It is therefore important
that a national policy is adopted to increase levels of food safety in this sector. At the same time,
advocacy of the HACCP system provides mutual benefits to the government, including safer
food and hence increased public health protection, which in turn may increase the confidence of
both national consumers and tourists. This, combined with better opportunities to increase trade,
results in economic growth and national development.
1. Introduction
1.3.4 Role of food businesses and potential benefits
Food businesses bear the ultimate responsibility for assuring the quality and safety of the foods
they produce. The food must reach the consumer in its intended state and there must be
adequate consumer information concerning the intended use of the product. Food businesses are
under growing pressure from governments and buyers to demonstrate that they implement
effective systems to meet basic GHP and HACCP requirements for food safety. Initial
responsibility for HACCP lies within the food industry, in particular with management:
x
x
x
Food must be produced in a hygienic manner.

The source of incoming raw materials must be considered.
A risk-based approach such as the HACCP system must be implemented to achieve food
safety.
Food businesses are also required to interact and comply with government requirements
regarding food safety management systems, inspection and auditing. Food industry associations
give food businesses a stronger voice in discussions with government and other interested
parties, and help work towards improving the overall standard of a specific food sector. They can
also raise awareness, promote technical transfer of information and increase provision of training.
It is recognized worldwide that the HACCP system:
x
x
x
provides clear benefits to food businesses;

enhances the safety of food; and
reduces cases of food-borne disease.
Benefits resulting from the implementation of HACCP systems have been identified (CCFH,
1999; Taylor, 2001; Quintana and FAO, 2002) and some are described below:
x
Staff and business owners gain confidence and are better equipped for informed discussion
on food safety measures with food inspectors, third party auditors, consultants, trading
partners, consumers and others.
A HACCP system is essentially a management tool and its development requires an
investment resulting in cost reductions to SLDBs in the medium and long term: more
efficient use of staff, provision of adequate documentation and reduced waste.
The increased level of process control can result in product consistency and improvements in
traceability, with beneficial cost implications for SLDBs as access to some markets is
increased and more customers are attracted.
The development of a HACCP system can be a valuable team-building exercise for an SLDB;
it can lead to improved education and awareness of staff working in SLDBs and staff
members are empowered when their input is sought and valued; this in turn can have a
positive effect on the development of the SLDB, as it demonstrates an ability to manage
change.
HACCP provides a basis for defence against litigation and can bring reduced insurance costs.
1.3.5 Exploring approaches for HACCP in SLDBs
Adoption of the Codex HACCP system has led to confusion among food safety practitioners and
food businesses (already facing numerous constraints see Chapter 2), with the result that
implementation has been partial or ineffective. Therefore, systems have been developed with a
more flexible approach and are usually referred to as "HACCP-based systems" or "systems based
on the principles of HACCP". They are faithful to the seven principles of HACCP, but do not
require the business to follow the traditional 12-step approach as outlined in the Codex
guidelines. Nevertheless, it is important that SLDBs have a good understanding of the controls
they are putting in place as, ultimately, it is they who are responsible for food safety.
1.3.6 Interdependency between HACCP systems and good hygienic practices
This document provides guidance on the application of HACCP in small businesses;

nevertheless, a logical approach ensues and it goes without saying that a HACCP system is based
upon and should take into account basic prerequisite programmes (i.e. GHPs). Prerequisite
programmes outline the measures taken to ensure that premises, equipment, transport and
employees do not contribute to or become food safety hazards. Without these basic principles
(e.g. sanitation, pest control, personnel practices), a risk-based system such as HACCP will fail.
The application of GHP and HACCP acknowledges two schools of thought:
x
All the basic prerequisite programmes should be in place in a food business before preparing
a HACCP plan.
A risk-based approach to food safety management can be applied by strengthening the GHP
programme, while completing the HACCP plan.
Which path to take (or whether to use a combination of both) is a matter of national policy with
due regard to importing country requirements. The basic GHP programme is of prime
importance for food safety, as stressed in the fourth revision of the Annex on HACCP
(contained in the Codex General Principle of Food Hygiene FAO and WHO, 2003):
Prerequisite programmes to HACCP, including training, should be well established, fully
operational and verified in order to facilitate the successful application and implementation of
the HACCP system.
While following these guidelines and considering the national policy options for the application
of HACCP in the small business sector, it is necessary to take account of the existing food
hygiene controls in the food business sector being targeted. What is the existing level of GHPs?
Are they adequate? Where is strengthening required?
Government assessment through planned inspection and auditing programmes should review the
application of good hygiene principles as well as other food safety management systems operated
by the food business. Where GHPs are inadequate, the initial objective of HACCP in SLDBs
should be basic hygiene improvement. Hazard analysis can help focus on priority areas where
improved hygiene is necessary. A specific HACCP plan i.e. with identification of CCPs and
control charts could be developed to increase confidence in the control of parameters critical
for food safety.
2. THE SMALL BUSINESS SECTOR AND CHALLENGES

FACED WORLDWIDE
The food industry in most countries is a major sector, sometimes accounting for the highest
proportion of the gross domestic product (GDP). In 2002, Indias food industry was valued at
US$75 billion and accounted for 30 percent of the GDP (Anandavally and FAO, 2002). In many
countries, the food industry comprises mainly small businesses which are responsible for a large
share of the food consumed. In 2002, Thailand reported a total of 57 217 food factories:
1 percent (444 factories) were classed as large plants, 3 percent (1 763) medium and up to
96 percent (55 010) small (Keeratipibul, Tutanathorn and FAO, 2002). Small businesses also
provide a large share of the total employment in the food sector and make a vital contribution to
the economic well-being of the community at local level. United Kingdom statistics suggest that
99 percent of food businesses are small companies employing 50 percent of the total food
industrys workforce and contributing 38 percent of its financial turnover (DTI, 1999). For other
countries not specifically referenced here (including developing countries), the proportion of
SLDBs is considered to be similar.
All national governments aim for indigenous small food businesses to thrive, but they must at the
same time protect public health. To this end, it is important to develop a food safety policy and
strategy for the implementation of HACCP in SLDBs. While not food exporters, SLDBs have a
strong impact on local and regional economies and a potentially immense impact on the health of
local consumers and therefore national public health.
In most countries, SLDBs are classified by size, using economic measures such as financial
turnover and number of employees. In 2001, the concept of defining small businesses on the
basis of their qualities was introduced (Taylor, 2001):
x
x
x
x
They serve local customers.

They have a limited share of the available market.
They are owned by one person or by a small group of people.
They are mostly owner-managed and independent of ownership by larger groups of
companies.
It is thus easier to define the types of business that need help in implementing HACCP.
However, a food businesss level of development and expertise must also be considered: in its
broadest sense, the term "SLDB" encompasses both small businesses and larger businesses
lacking the ability to develop effective food safety management systems.
Therefore, for the purposes of this document, the term SLDB is taken as the definition adopted
in the report of the WHO Consultation on "Strategies for Implementing HACCP in Small
and/or Less Developed Business" in 1999 (WHO, 1999) and introduced to the CCFH in 1999
(CCFH, 1999):
The term small and/or less developed businesses (SLDBs) shall mean businesses that
because of their size, lack of technical expertise, economic resources, or the nature of their
work, encounter difficulties in implementing HACCP in their food business. The term less
developed business refers to the status of the food safety management system and not to the
number of staff or volume of production.
The strategies and approaches described in Chapter 4 are applicable to both small and less
developed businesses. National circumstances dictate which approaches are the most appropriate
for which type of business, and governments need to identify the obstacles that may face SLDBs
when implementing HACCP. Not all barriers apply in all countries and their relative importance
also differs. With a complete understanding of the barriers to HACCP implementation in SLDBs,
national governments can develop better policies and select the most appropriate solutions (see
Chapter 3). The barriers to HACCP implementation in SLDBs may initially seem daunting;
governments need to understand them and should not be deterred from progressing towards
solutions. There are clear benefits to the implementation of HACCP in SLDBs (see Chapter 1).
The obstacles to the application of HACCP in SLDBs were discussed in detail at the 35th session
of the CCFH (CCFH, 2003) and are summarized below. Recent publications, including the FAO
country case studies on HACCP application (Anandavally and FAO, 2002; Keeratipibul,
Tutanathorn and FAO, 2002; Quintana and FAO, 2002; Gelli, 2002) and an FAO survey on the
application of HACCP in SLDBs (Costarrica, 2004), have also shed light on additional HACCP
barriers. Matters raised within the FAO/WHO electronic discussion group and during the expert
meeting held in Rome, December 2004, provided additional information. All these findings are
included in the summaries below.
2.1 CHALLENGES WITHIN THE FOOD BUSINESS
2.1.1 Infrastructure and facilities
For many SLDBs, HACCP means additional costs in upgrading facilities before the system is
even applied. This can be an insurmountable barrier for some SLDBs unless support is provided
by governments or trade associations. Furthermore, hygiene management can be hindered by the
local infrastructure (inadequate power, water, sewage disposal and transport facilities) and SLDBs
usually lack the resources to provide on-site solutions (e.g. sewage treatment). Again,
governments have an undeniable role in resolving these difficulties.
2.1.2 Basic hygiene
Good hygienic practices tend to be lacking in SLDBs more than in other food businesses. It is
common for SLDBs to face a variety of problems: inadequate location, layout or size of facility,
non-cleanable structures, old non-cleanable equipment and poor staff training. Some countries
face basic sanitation problems, such as easy access to potable water and safe disposal of waste;
furthermore, it is often difficult for SLDBs to obtain raw materials from reliable and affordable
sources. Prerequisite programmes therefore result ineffective, HACCP is difficult to implement,
and there is little effect on hazard control. On the other hand, strict adherence to the dogma that
HACCP cannot be implemented without full control over the prerequisites has also impeded the
uptake of HACCP in SLDBs.
10
3. Development of a HACCP strategy for SLDBs within a national food safety policy
2.2 STAFF-RELATED CHALLENGES

2.2.1 Awareness and expertise
The owners and operators of SLDBs may be committed to ensuring food safety; however,
because of their immersion in the day-to-day running of their businesses, they are often unaware
of the importance of HACCP. On the other hand, they may know about HACCP, but lack the
technical competence and business skills necessary to operate an effective prerequisite
programme and set up a HACCP system as envisaged in the Codex Alimentarius guidance (FAO,
2003). Even with several years of government promotion of HACCP, a significant number of
SLDBs remain ignorant of the concept (FSAI, 2001; Mortlock, Peters and Griffiths, 1999), and
those businesses which have heard of HACCP are often "swamped" by technical jargon, which is
in itself a barrier to clear communication and acceptance of the benefits of HACCP. Most people
in SLDBs are not technically skilled enough to conduct a meaningful hazard analysis; since this is
an early step in the implementation process, this barrier alone can stop the process in its tracks. It
is therefore important that the materials produced focus on the needs and abilities of those to
whom they are targeted and that they are presented in as user-friendly a way as possible.
2.2.2 Education and training
For successful HACCP implementation, the concept must be understood by food business
owners and managers. Their understanding and commitment is crucial if staff are to effectively
operate a food safety management system (of which HACCP is one aspect). Specific training
courses did not used to exist and only recently has HACCP been integrated in university
curricula; consequently, many business owners have not been exposed to HACCP at all or have
received only cursory instruction. What is more, HACCP is still largely taught by theorists in the
formal education system: the Codex HACCP system is often rigidly adhered to and practical
implementation issues are not always covered.
While processes in different SLDBs are often quite alike, there can also be marked variation
between seemingly similar businesses. Training must take account of this diversity and needs to
move away from the "one size fits all" concept. Literacy levels are sometimes low; training must
be tailored to account for this and may have to be more practical (i.e. use of demonstrations)
than theoretical. Training locations should be suited to the needs of the trainees. The challenges
may be further compounded where there is a high turnover of staff a common situation in
many SLDBs. In some countries, SLDBs are family-run enterprises passed down through
generations and employing traditional methods of food production. Many workers and managers
in such businesses may not be trained in even basic food hygiene; training may need to include all
relevant hygiene aspects rather than simply targeting HACCP. In some countries, food hygiene
training courses are provided separately; it may now be preferable to provide training courses
which integrate basic hygiene and HACCP principles.
In short, new training approaches need to be developed to meet the specific needs of SLDBs. A
key factor to be taken into consideration is the literacy level, as workers must be able to read and
write in order to fill out simple records effectively.
11
2.2.3 Technical support
SLDBs often lack the technical expertise required to implement HACCP and may need external
support. In particular, they need help to identify the hazards associated with their food processes;
such help must be readily accessible (note that the sheer expense of expertise is a further
obstacle) and easy to understand. SLDBs often lack the capacity to differentiate between good
and bad experts. Although in some countries, expertise is available through consultants, there is
no guarantee of the standard of advice. In such countries and in other countries where
consultancy is rarely available, governments and industry/trade associations are responsible for
providing adequate, accessible technical support for SLDBs.
2.2.4 Human resources
SLDBs normally have to maintain tight control over their costs. Consequently, labour rarely
exceeds the level necessary for the day-to-day running of the business. This problem often
prevents resource allocation for the implementation of HACCP systems and curtails the amount
of training received by staff (other than on-the-job training). In some sectors there is a high rate
of staff turnover, or staff tend to work on short temporary contracts; management is therefore
reluctant to invest in training for HACCP. This is sometimes criticized as lack of commitment to
HACCP; however, it may not be an attitude problem, rather the result of the fact that human
resources in SLDBs are a scarce commodity. In reality, however, staff training can have longterm benefits, even with high staff turnover rates, as some staff will move to other businesses or
sectors, and training can lead to increased awareness of food safety practices in the home.
2.2.5 Psychological factors
In order to successfully implement HACCP in SLDBs, behaviour change is required. Behaviour

is deeply rooted in a persons psyche and it is sometimes essential to understand the
psychological constraints on people in SLDBs faced with implementing HACCP. Gilling et al.
(2001) used a medical model to examine this barrier to HACCP implementation in different-sized
food businesses. Their findings suggest that more barriers to HACCP implementation were
perceived by SLDBs than by larger businesses. Barriers envisaged by all companies, large and
small, include:
x
x
x
x
customer demands;
time/cost pressures;
lack of motivation; and
the belief that HACCP would not necessarily make a difference in their own business.
Additional barriers in SLDBs are psychological constraints, including:

x
lack of self-efficacy (the belief that a person has the capability to organize and execute a
course of action);
inertia (the inability to overcome the habit of a previous practice due to lack of desire to
change); and
agreement (cannot see how HACCP can deliver safer food on their premises).
12
Inertia and agreement are often deep rooted in the owners belief that the SLDB is already
producing safe food without a HACCP system. Such psychological constraints tend to be
inadequately addressed and passed off as "lack of management commitment", a phrase often seen
in HACCP literature.
2.3 CHALLENGES DUE TO INADEQUATE SUPPORTING ENVIRONMENT
2.3.1 Financial issues
Financial constraints are a practical barrier to implementing HACCP, felt by governments and
industry alike, and can be particularly acute in SLDBs. As a result, the assistance provided by
governments and trade associations is not adequate to affect change. Good hazard control can
lead to savings for governments (e.g. lower public health costs and reduced workplace
absenteeism); however, these are rarely appreciated or used to offset initial financial investment.
While the costs associated with HACCP can be daunting for SLDBs, they may also be perceived
to be higher than they actually are (e.g. cost of external consultants). A real cost is staff time: the
time necessary for training and subsequent implementation can hinder the day-to-day running of
an SLDB. It is necessary to consider the potential long-term savings that a good HACCP system
can accrue, not least the protection against harm to the consumer and against potential litigation
that can follow food poisoning incidents. There is lack of evidence of the cost-benefit ratio of the
HACCP system: the lack of data and studies relating to HACCP implementation and its impact
on food safety means that the visible benefits of HACCP are not so evident.
2.3.2 Government infrastructure and commitment
National governments and their associated agencies and bodies must be committed to HACCP
systems in SLDBs. External and internal commitment is important for the development and
implementation of a successful HACCP initiative in SLDBs. An appropriate common policy for
the application of GHP/HACCP in SLDBs is needed to achieve uniformity among trainers.
Insufficient government commitment, inadequate professional knowledge of HACCP (including
inadequately trained auditors), poor coordination within government structures and/or
inconsistency in HACCP enforcement or application are not conducive to the creation of a food
safety culture in which HACCP can thrive. In this respect, one of the most important tasks of
governments is to make industry aware of the benefits of and the need for introducing HACCP
to produce safe food. However, the sheer number of SLDBs poses a major challenge.
Governments must train staff responsible for introducing HACCP in SLDBs. An important issue
is the mindset and skills of inspectors which need to be adapted to ensure they can assess the
effectiveness of HACCP systems in food businesses and rely less on traditional inspection
methods.
2.3.3 Legal requirements
SLDBs can be persuaded to implement HACCP when it is a legal requirement and importantly
properly enforced. The presence alone of a legal requirement is not sufficient to stir all SLDB
owners into affirmative action, but it can be considered part of a framework to promote HACCP
implementation. However, when drafting legal provisions with respect to HACCP, the nature of
13
the system should not be too rigidly described as it hampers flexibility and the ability of an SLDB
to apply the system to their business. It should be noted that legal HACCP is not a necessity,
rather a matter of national policy: it will work in some countries and cultures, but perhaps not at
all in others. Any legal requirement should attempt to work in tandem with existing initiatives
that may be taken by the food industry itself.
2.3.4 Business awareness and attitude of industry and trade associations
Market forces and export requirements have been central to the implementation of HACCP in
many food businesses. The implementation of food safety management systems incorporating
HACCP can be a prerequisite to market access. This is particularly evident if businesses are
export oriented or if they supply into large retail multinational businesses. Many SLDBs, on the
other hand, only supply the domestic market and there is no significant presence of large
multinational retailers in some countries; as a result, SLDBs in catering and other sectors have
been reluctant to implement HACCP this is also the case for SLDBs supplying direct to
consumers or local retailers and caterers. Trade associations have a role to play in promoting
HACCP; however, in many countries they do not exist and, even when they are present, SLDBs
are likely to be under-represented compared to larger food businesses.
2.3.5 Customer awareness
Many SLDBs are customer focused, whether they are conscious of this or not. Indeed, many
SLDBs have direct contact with consumers in a way that larger businesses cannot achieve.
Therefore, the consumer can be a very strong driver for change, but when customers (and
consumers) do not perceive food safety as an issue of fundamental importance, it is unlikely that
SLDBs will be driven to implement HACCP. In many countries especially developing countries
consumer awareness (and the pressure that can be placed on food businesses) is in the early
stages of development: it is the responsibility of government and international organizations to
educate consumers in this regard. Where consumers are illiterate, the challenges are compounded:
elementary education can supply healthcare knowledge which forms the basis of GHP/HACCP
training. The mass media are in an excellent position to educate consumers and to promote the
demand for safe food and appropriate control systems. However, it may also have a negative
effect if not handled properly and if journalists are not appropriately informed.
Food safety should form an important part of business dealings throughout the food chain. Food
(raw or intermediate) should be purchased from businesses implementing HACCP systems.
Combined with greater consumer awareness, this should create demand and a strong driving
force to undertake improvements in food safety. It is the governments responsibility to:
x
x
x
consider the potential impact on the food supply chain (providing support where there is a
demand for raw materials from businesses implementing HACCP);
take account of the impact on price (i.e. increases); and
intervene with regard to the subsequent availability of raw materials.
14
2.3.6 Communication
Poor communication between governments, industry and consumers can impede the
introduction of HACCP. Communication strategies covering the content of the
communication as well as the channels for communication need to be part of any HACCP
policy or strategy. Often the only point of official contact with SLDBs is through official
inspectors; if these people are not resourced, trained and allowed to provide advice as well as
conduct official inspections, it can hamper a national strategy aimed at increasing HACCP
implementation.
15
3. DEVELOPMENT OF A HACCP STRATEGY FOR SLDBS WITHIN

A NATIONAL FOOD SAFETY POLICY
3.1 INTRODUCTION
Governments are responsible for public health and economic development; improvements in
food safety including the implementation of HACCP in food businesses can have a positive
effect in both areas. Agriculture and the agribusiness sector make an important contribution to
the national economy in many countries. The specific nature of the sector varies from country to
country in terms of food products, types of technology employed, size of businesses, access to
domestic and export markets, and development of GHPs and HACCP programmes. A wide
range of stakeholders are working towards the common goal of food quality and safety:
government departments (health, agriculture, fisheries, education, development, trade and
industry/enterprise), scientific institutes, food associations, trainers, consultants and auditors, in
addition to external influences (buyers, accreditation organizations and standard-setting agencies).
National food safety policies serve to coordinate and maximize the efforts of all stakeholders
working towards the common goal of food quality and safety. The overall goal of a food safety
policy may be to safeguard the quality and safety of the total food supply, leading to:
x
x
x
reduction in the incidence of food-borne disease;

improvements in nutrition and quality of life; and
enhanced food security through a vibrant food business sector.
Effective food safety policies set the strategic direction for food control activities and provide a
framework for the implementation of specific strategies to achieve the overall goals. The status
and delivery mechanisms for food safety policies vary from country to country, depending on
stages of development, food safety problems and administrative arrangements. Figure 2 outlines
the relationship between the national food safety policy, individual strategies and strategic
activities to achieve the goals of the policy.
The application of GHP and HACCP programmes along the food chain is a priority for
governments and food businesses, and HACCP systems cannot be successfully applied if GHPs
are not in place (CCFH, 1997; CCFH, 1998; Anandavally and FAO, 2002; Keeratipibul,
Tutanathorn and FAO, 2002; Quintana and FAO, 2002; Gelli and FAO, 2002; Costarrica, 2004).
A national HACCP strategy should address the situation of all food businesses in a country, and
where SLDBs account for a significant amount of the food produced and consumed, special
emphasis should be given to understanding the specific needs of SLDBs and some elements of
the national strategy should be tailored to these needs. Where there is no national governmentled food safety policy, decisions tend to be taken by other stakeholders, such as the more
organized elements of the food industry, market forces and organizations outside of the country.
Initiatives by these stakeholder groups are important, especially when there is a lack of
government support; however, they may result in fragmented or differing approaches, which in
turn can be to the particular detriment of the development and sustainability of SLDBs, with
resulting social impact.
17
FIGURE 2
Government policy and strategies
GOVERNMENT FOOD SAFETY POLICY
Evaluation of food safety

risks
Information
campaign
HACCP
strategy
Sector specific
guidelines
Financial support
for equipment
Official inspection
programme
Training on
hazard analysis
Given the barriers facing the implementation of HACCP in SLDBs (see Chapter 2), many
activities are needed on many different fronts involving a range of stakeholders. To achieve the
desired goals of the food safety policy, activities must be organized in the most efficient and
effective manner. HACCP is based on a coherent interdepartmental and multidisciplinary
approach and requires full stakeholder involvement.
Successful HACCP development and implementation are interconnected with other strategies:
x
x
x
x
x
Improvement of official food control and inspection system (including inspector training).
Improvement of official laboratories.
Appropriate evaluation of food safety risks.
Improvement of local infrastructure (water, roads, electricity supply).
Higher quality construction of food premises and facilities.
Each strategy comprises a range of specific activities and the various strategies must be coherent
in order for the HACCP strategy to be successful.
3.2 DEVELOPMENT OF STRATEGY FOR HACCP IMPLEMENTATION
The first step is to broadly list the desired objectives and outcomes in terms of food safety
and/or economics and on the basis of the national food safety policy. The strategy should focus
on the creation of an environment with a sound foundation of GHPs to facilitate HACCP
implementation in SLDBs. In some countries it is possible to conceive a single all-encompassing
strategy incorporating all HACCP activities in all SLDBs, irrespective of food sector. In other
18
countries it may be necessary to develop a series of strategies aimed at SLDBs in specific food
sectors; the strategies need to be coordinated to ensure that they enact and reflect the national
food safety policy.
In either case, the steps outlined in this chapter for the creation of effective strategies are
applicable. Note that the term "strategy" used in the context of this document refers to a single
national HACCP strategy comprising a series of coordinated strategic activities implemented
through a planned process. Where GHPs are not already systematically applied, the first objective
is basic hygiene improvement. The strategy should be based on sound and comprehensive
information and concern itself with solutions and their likely impact. The sector of the food
industry and size of business concerned should be specified. Only if a strategy is developed
correctly, can its implementation through specific activities (see Chapter 4) culminate in the
achievement of the desired policy outcomes.
Figure 3 presents the logical sequence of steps to be followed for the successful development of a
HACCP strategy. It is not essential that governments follow the exact order; for example, it may
be appropriate to assess the impact of the draft strategy before consulting with stakeholders.
3.2.1 Gather information
Information concerning HACCP implementation in SLDBs should be obtained from both

external international sources and internal national sources.
x
External. It is important to learn from the experiences of other countries: organizations such
as FAO and WHO are very useful repositories of information relevant to national strategy, as
are the Web sites of national governments or their agencies, in addition to the published
literature (Mortlock, Peters and Griffiths, 1999; Panisello, Quantick and Knowles, 1999;
CFIA, 2004). It is important for governments to be aware that influences vary between
countries (e.g. food industry profile, economic performance, organizations and support
structures, infrastructure); they may underlie the adoption of a particular strategy but may not
necessarily be communicated openly strategies adopted in one country may not be effective
in another. Brief summaries of some national experiences are provided in Annex 1.
Internal. To obtain information internally, initial consultation with the relevant stakeholders is
vital; they often have information that is not publicly available and which places other
information in the correct context. Surveys are a useful tool for example, a structured
questionnaire which should be statistically validated (FSAI, 2002; Quintana and FAO, 2002;
Burt, 2001). Results must be interpreted carefully, as the information obtained from SLDB
self-diagnosis may not be entirely compatible with similar information gained by a third party
audit of a businesss food safety management system. It is recommended that survey results
are cross-checked with, for example, official inspection reports, trade body reports or other
available surveys. The findings need to be broadly consistent and any anomalies should be
investigated before developing a strategy on the basis of possible misinformation.
19
FIGURE 3
Logical sequence for development of strategy for HACCP implementation
Gather information
Define barriers and identify causes
Develop and select possible solutions
Draft strategy and consult widely
Conduct an assessment of potential

impact of strategy
Finalize and publish strategy
Implement strategy (including

monitoring of results and feedback)
Review/revise as needed
Examples of relevant national information are given below. They are not comprehensive:
governments should develop a more exhaustive list relevant to their national circumstances.
x
Food-borne illness
Underlying causes of sporadic food-borne illness and outbreaks
Economic and structural profile of the food industry

Contribution to GDP
Food business size profile
Export versus import
Employment figures
Skills and education of staff at all levels
20
Level of quality assurance (QA) programmes, including basic hygiene programmes

Availability of skilled personnel
Food safety support structures

Government
Industry
Third party
Internal pressures/strengths and challenges

Legal requirements
Political drivers
Basic infrastructure
Level of economic development
Official food control structure, organization and resources
Cultural considerations
External pressures/opportunities and weaknesses

Export requirements
Legal requirements
WTO rules
Much of this information is readily available to governments and gaps can be filled by
commissioning studies. For example, full national diagnostic studies can be carried out in
conjunction with FAO the information gathered is incorporated in one document and used to
support policy decisions (Anandavally and FAO, 2002; Keeratipibul, Tutanathorn and FAO,
2002; Quintana and FAO, 2002; Gelli, 2002; Costarrica, 2004).
3.2.2 Define barriers and identify causes
Once the information has been gathered, the barriers can be identified and defined. Barriers to
HACCP tend to have public health and economic consequences. It is important for a national
government to decide on the relative priorities of these two factors as they are inextricably linked
(if the health risk in question is high, for example, it may be preferable to hinder industry and
therefore the economy in order to protect the public).
An analysis of the information available can identify correlations between the barrier and the
possible causes. However, it is important to distinguish between correlation and causality. For
example, the number of outbreaks of food poisoning may be inversely correlated with the level
of HACCP implementation, but this does not necessarily mean that food-borne disease
outbreaks can be reduced only by the implementation of HACCP in SLDBs.
Identification of the cause of a barrier may require SLDBs to provide specific and detailed
information. Hence, information gathering becomes an iterative process throughout a strategys
lifetime.
21
3.2.3 Develop and select possible solutions
A variety of approaches can be adopted to develop solutions to overcoming the identified

barriers (Osborn, 1967). Techniques include:
x
x
x
analysis of detailed surveys;

provision of possible solutions by survey respondents themselves; and
brainstorming.
It is recommended that governments generate solutions to their own problems taking into
account local needs and challenges (see Chapter 4). In particular:
x
Focus on national requirements: one countrys needs do not always reflect anothers (e.g. a
voluntary approach may work for one government, while mandatory may be more
appropriate for another).
Identify the role of different government agencies and other main stakeholders in the
implementation.
Refer to information gathered at the start of the strategy development to ensure that solutions
are practical.
Incorporate into the strategy any identified incentives (e.g. a state-funding agency or schemes
for promoting exports) already in place for the implementation of HACCP in SLDBs.
3.2.4 Draft strategy and consult widely
After drafting a strategy based on the definition of the problem and the best possible solutions, it
is recommended to consult a wide range of stakeholders (consumers, food industry, government
bodies, research or scientific organizations, and possibly organizations in other countries). The
strategy should have a goal linked to the food safety policy and objectives linked to the
achievement of that goal. In turn, specific activities can be defined under each objective to ensure
the objective is met (Figure 2). The strategy is thus likely to be more creative, more effective and
more widely adopted. Governments should take all possible steps to gain commitment for a
HACCP strategy, and participation in strategy development can be a means of achieving this
(FSAI, 2002; FSA, 2003; ASEZA, 2005; Gelli, 2002; Celaya, 2004). A strategy develops over time
and therefore it is important that regular reviews, continuous evaluation and measures of
progress are built into the framework; modifications can be made in the light of changing
circumstances brought on by its implementation. However, it should not be forgotten that the
strategy is linked to a national policy which should always be enacted.
The strategy must include a coordinated plan of action to enable the solutions to be implemented
within a realistic time scale, taking into account the many barriers. The consultation phase should
be designed to elucidate the issues surrounding the implementation of a strategy as well as to test
the underlying thinking behind it.
The method of consultation varies widely from country to country. Countries may have a
standard consultation process which is applied when new legislation or standards are being
implemented, e.g. consultation in advance of new directives in the United Kingdom (FSA, 2004)
22
or consultative groups to assist in the development of new standards used by the Food Standards
Australia New Zealand (FSANZ, 2004). Web-based consultation can be effective, but in some
countries it may be necessary to physically engage the stakeholders either indirectly (via a
consultation document) or directly (via focus meetings or stakeholder forums). A combination of
Web-based comment and physical meetings often proves to be most desirable. The choice of
consultation mechanism depends on the intended target audience.
The consultation process is essential for the strategy to have a good chance of success. It is a
means of involving and gaining commitment from stakeholders; this in turn creates "ownership"
of the strategy and eases its future implementation. Indeed, governments should be wary of
consultation approaches which fail to engage with all stakeholders or that are not transparent;
likewise, they should ensure that the information provided during consultation is acted upon.
Otherwise the strategy is likely to be undermined and its implementation may prove difficult.
3.2.5 Conduct assessment of potential impact of strategy
The information gathered should also be used to conduct an assessment of the potential impact
of implementation of the strategy, in particular to:
x
x
x
anticipate the possible effects on each stakeholder group;

examine issues relating to the economic resources; and
envisage the potential social impact.
For example, a strategy that includes mandatory HACCP implementation may result in the
closure of a significant number of SLDBs, unless sufficient support structures are put in place.
Implementation costs may also be passed on to consumers via price increases, with negative
repercussions for the market. By assessing the likely impact of a policy, it is possible to determine
what actions may be necessary to limit the impact; in doing so, the seeds of a strategy are sown.
Experience has shown that a certain level of impact is unavoidable and it is, therefore, important
that governments anticipate and tolerate the ensuing economic and social outcomes of their
actions.
3.2.6 Modify and publish strategy
On the basis of information gathered from the consultation phase and the impact assessment, it
may be necessary to modify the strategy. The strategy should then be published in an appropriate
form and communicated widely to all stakeholder groups. An active rather than a passive
approach is recommended in this regard, because it is important that everyone affected by the
strategy has access to it and is actively involved in its implementation.
3.2.7 Implement strategy
Once the strategy has been agreed upon and officially published, an action plan is required for
example, steering groups or a specific agency could be responsible for execution of the strategy.
Irrespective of the implementation method chosen, national government should ensure that all
stakeholders are involved to some extent, depending on national circumstances.
23
A government embarking on a HACCP implementation plan must provide sufficient financial

and human resources to achieve its objectives. An under-resourced approach could be perceived
by SLDBs as a lack of government commitment to the detriment of the strategy.
Matters requiring consideration include: the sequencing of activities within a HACCP strategy;
whether the application of HACCP will be voluntary or mandatory; and the option of a stepwise
approach. For example, in some countries a progressive GHP-to-HACCP approach or a
voluntary-to-mandatory-HACCP approach have been used successfully to ensure
implementation.
The timing of the implementation must be determined. For example, if the strategy includes
mandatory implementation of HACCP for all food business types, the following are examples of
implementation timing strategies:
x
All food businesses to have HACCP implemented by a specified date. This approach is
transparent and "fair" in the eyes of food businesses, but it is difficult for the regulator to
resource as all food businesses require government-supplied resources at the same time.
Time frames developed using a risk-based approach, i.e. high-risk businesses must meet
HACCP requirements first. This ensures that resources are directed towards "problem" areas.
However, there are potential disadvantages, including:
allocation of resources to determine the risk (using food-borne illness data and
consumption data);
need to determine food categories; and
need for supplier specifications and resulting increased demand on resources (for
example, if food services [e.g. caterers] are identified as high risk, they will have to agree
specifications with their suppliers and take action to monitor compliance).
Training is an essential component of any government strategy. Steps should be taken to facilitate
the availability and delivery of appropriate training to government officials, in particular, those
responsible for assisting SLDBs to implement HACCP. These officials may need detailed training
in HACCP and specific training in HACCP-based approaches (see Chapter 4). As traditional
inspection methods are inappropriate for assessment of HACCP in food businesses, government
officials may need to develop relevant auditing skills. Where consultants are used to assist SLDBs
in implementing HACCP, they should also be given appropriate training.
3.2.8 Review and revise as needed
Those responsible for implementing the strategy should also be responsible for monitoring and
reviewing its progress on a regular basis and carrying out necessary modifications. To ensure
sustainable, long-term success, there should be periodic assessments (and hence public
recognition of significant progress) during the implementation phase. This will reaffirm
commitment to the strategy and the findings from periodic review can be used to improve and
adjust the strategy as required.
24
3.3 CRITERIA FOR MEASURING SUCCESS OF STRATEGY
The impact of the activities and, ultimately, the delivery of the national strategy must be
measured. By carrying out an appraisal during review, it is possible to modify the strategy as it
progresses. If a HACCP strategy works, there should be an increase in the number of SLDBs
implementing HACCP. On the other hand, there have been cases where HACCP has been
introduced as a mandatory requirement, with the result that processing units are closed down or
inadequate HACCP systems are implemented. Therefore, to measure the true impact of a
strategy, indicators should be clearly defined to ensure that they are representative when gauging
to what extent the overall objective of the strategy is being achieved. Measurements taken before,
during and after can be used to analyse trends and demonstrate improvements, which in turn
provide greater public health protection.
3.3.1 How to measure HACCP implementation
x
Quantify the increase in the number of SLDBs using HACCP systems and the patterns
associated with uptake (e.g. Is it sector specific? Are certain size businesses or businesses at a
certain level of development omitted?).
Distinguish the level of implementation of the system and any behavioural or attitude changes
occurring as a result; determine what barriers remain or, indeed, whether new barriers have
arisen.
It is important to examine the "before" and "after" scenarios and planning is essential: a
"measurement" should be taken before the strategic activity is undertaken and then during and
after its completion. Strategy development should include consideration of how to measure the
HACCP implementation and selection of appropriate indicators. While not essential for all
elements of the strategy, it is particularly important for financial support systems, training and any
introduction of HACCP-based systems.
A professional auditor examines in detail both the extent of implementation and the quality of
the HACCP system. A business can quite feasibly have a HACCP system in place but that same
system may not actually be valid or offer the necessary level of food hazard control. Similarly, a
well-designed HACCP system can be implemented badly. Professional auditors must determine
the precise state of affairs by observing and questioning all staff in the SLDB as well as examining
documentation and records. Professional auditors may be independent, qualified, third party
experts or qualified government officials. In both cases, they should work to an agreed
transparent protocol to increase the consistency of the exercise (FSAI, 2004). The level of detail
achieved corresponds to the level of financial and human resources available the extent of the
exercise depends on national circumstances. To minimize costs, a statistical sample of SLDBs can
be audited.
While it is difficult to directly assess changes in knowledge, attitude and behaviour in food safety,
a number of psychological tools have been used successfully, for example:
x
The narratology approach uses in-depth, non-directive interviews and subsequent detailed
content analysis to assess the "psyche" of the interviewee. If undertaken before and after an
25
intervention, psychological change in knowledge, attitude and behaviour within the business
can be determined.
Design a risk management module linking the food business risk category and the grading
score rates of the inspection report to decide the frequency and schedule of inspection (e.g.
ASEZA, 2005). This system can provide a systematic science-based methodology to monitor
food business compliance and enhanced performance. There must be an inspection scoring
before the strategy is implemented against which you can compare at determined times after
the strategy has been implemented.
3.3.2 Indicators of successful HACCP implementation
Indicators help governments decide whether HACCP is being successfully implemented in an

SLDB or a sector; it is then possible to decide whether targets have been achieved and to
determine the strategys success. The relevant indicators depend on national circumstances and
the strategic approach adopted. Research in this area is still in its infancy but some indicators
have been determined and are given below as guidance:
x
History or track record of the SLDB:

number of compliance violations;
findings of enforcement officers; and
number of associated food safety incidents.
Number of consumer complaints (either by business or by sector).

Change in number of reported food-borne illnesses associated with a business or sector.
Number of certified businesses in a sector.
Number of product recalls in a business or sector.
Number of rejections or detentions in importing countries.
Number of new SLDBs recorded as having adopted HACCP.
Results of inspection missions by foreign competent authorities (where relevant).
x
x
x
x
x
x
While not strictly quantitative indicators, positive and negative trends can be monitored by
reviewing the following:
x
x
Assessment of on-site documentation and records (appropriateness, accuracy and validity).

Comparison study of business achievements (based on risk management profile, scored
inspection report and grading scale).
In the Netherlands, the enforcement officer uses a checklist based on one or more HACCP
topics during every inspection. The results (i.e. whether compliant or not) are entered into a
laptop computer and analysed. This gives an idea of the sectors compliance with HACCP-related
items and provides input for further action (e.g. future priorities, communication with the sector
association, provision of additional information to the sector). The selection of indicators based
on enforcement officers records can vary over time due to experience gained during the process.
26
4. STRATEGIC ACTIVITIES TO FACILITATE HACCP

IMPLEMENTATION IN SLDBS
This chapter provides examples of the types of activity that may be considered as part of the
strategy. Enacted individually, the activities are unlikely to resolve difficulties for SLDBs hence
the need for a complete and coherent strategic approach. While it is important to assess the
existing level of application of good hygienic practices (see Chapter 1), it should be noted that
application of a risk-based system such as HACCP does not replace or negate the need for a
strong GHP programme. Indeed, both GHP and HACCP may be interdependently strengthened
for a comprehensive approach to producing food safely. In many countries, SLDBs require
effective support to strengthen the application of GHPs and the HACCP system.
National approaches, where some or all of the following strategic activities have been undertaken,
are summarized in Annex 1. Annex 2 outlines the application of specific activities for each of the
seven principles of HACCP in SLDBs.
Two distinct and equally valid groupings of strategic activities are outlined in this chapter:
x
x
Section 4.1 describes activities that are vital to support HACCP implementation in SLDBs.
Section 4.2 describes HACCP-based approaches successfully developed and implemented by
various national governments and other concerned parties.
No single activity should be used in isolation, nor is it necessary to include all examples of the
strategic activities described for a successful HACCP strategy.
If a national government has developed its strategy in a similar way to that outlined in the
previous chapter, there should be sufficient information available to enable selection of the best
strategic activities. Section 4.1 presents some of the most effective features of the various
activities, their respective advantages (and disadvantages, where appropriate) and some of the
challenges that may arise. Examples of effective strategic activities are also provided.
4.1 SUPPORT ACTIVITIES
4.1.1 Provision of financial support
A government embarking on a HACCP implementation strategy must provide financial and

human resources to achieve its goals. However, these resources are often directed towards the
development of materials for SLDBs or official control activities, rather than being directly
accessible in the form of support and assistance.
It should also be recognized that the financial costs associated with HACCP represent a
significant barrier for SLDBs, and access to the materials and training required for HACCP
implementation may require the provision of financial support. Funds can be made available in
different ways:
27
x
x
In some countries, grant aid may be available through established trade associations.
An innovative voluntary initiative was implemented by the Government of Hungary to attract
funding from the public sector and industry in order to enable food businesses to obtain up
to 50 percent of costs for the development of HACCP plans. This government-managed
scheme also facilitated training within food businesses (Sebok, 2002).
In many countries, the government has provided financial support for improving good
hygienic practices and HACCP development, for example in Thailand (Keeratipibul,
Tutanathorn and FAO, 2002), Brazil (Gelli and FAO, 2002) and Chile (Quintana and FAO,
2002). The emphasis in these cases was on GHPs, as the governments view was that without
proper GHP, SLDBs were not able to implement HACCP.4
In Canada, the HACCP adaptation programme provided financial support for the agri-food
sector (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2005).
In Colombia, the Research Center for Economy and International Competitiveness,
Universidad Javeriana, runs a programme supporting GMP (good manufacturing practice)
implementation in SLDBs with national funds for SLDB development.5
When financial support is provided to SLDBs to facilitate HACCP implementation (through, for
example, HACCP plan development or training), policy-makers should make available
appropriate support facilities. This requires coordination and cooperation between the different
bodies involved to ensure delivery of the support. The procedures for accessing financial support
must be simple, in order to facilitate uptake by SLDBs; there should be appropriate control
measures in place to ensure that the support provided is used effectively.
Financial support
Some features
Advantages
Funds targeted for HACCP development in SLDBs

Funds targeted for development of sector-specific
HACCP-based hygiene codes
Improved equipment and facilities
Administration by single agency via local support structure
Simple mechanism to obtain funds
Support mechanism to raise awareness of financial
support
Monitoring system to evaluate success
Facilitates HACCP implementation as part of a

holistic approach
Provides opportunity for improved equipment and
facilities
Raises level of training and technical ability
Demonstrates government commitment to SLDBs
Minimizes potential social and economic impact of
mandatory HACCP approach
Creates awareness about HACCP within food
industry sector and about key factors to be
controlled (e.g. time-temperature)
Examples
Potential challenges
Targeted funds for general hygiene and HACCP training

Grants linked to purchase of government-approved
training courses and HACCP systems or other
certified/recognized programmes
Financial loans available with favourable low-rate or longterm payback provisions for SLDBs
Access to equipment calibration services at reduced rates
or grants to purchase equipment
Provision of basic equipment (e.g. thermometers)
Not available in countries with limited budgets

Not effective in isolation of other support activities
May need support from government-approved
HACCP programmes and training
Can prove expensive for governments
Limited in time and requires suitable spending
evaluation structures
Further examples of strengthening good hygienic practices as the progressive means to implementing HACCP at a later stage are
documented in Celaya (2004) and Costarrica (2004).
5 www.puj.edu.co/centro/cieci/index.html
28
4. Strategic activities to facilitate HACCP implementation in SLDBs
4.1.2 Provision of guidance and explanatory information
Most government HACCP strategies are characterized by the provision of guidance and
information in the form of manuals, short booklets, leaflets, videos etc. Such guidance is valuable
for raising awareness of HACCP in SLDBs, providing clear advice and clarifying the HACCP
concept, but the practical content tends to be limited and so it is not sufficient alone to increase
HACCP implementation in SLDBs.
Numerous short documents or leaflets have been developed to introduce the concept of HACCP
and the advantages that the system offers for SLDBs (see Annex 1). Guidance booklets explain
the terminology surrounding HACCP and food safety in an attempt to address the technical
barriers described in Chapter 2. Specific guidance has also been developed by governments for
particular types of SLDB. Guidance documents tend to advise and point the SLDB in the right
direction rather than giving practical help. They provide information and enhance capacity among
food businesses, but also increase consumer awareness of the importance of food safety and
good hygienic practices, which can result in pressure being exerted on food businesses to
improve overall levels of food safety.
Guidance and explanatory information

Some features
Advantages
Short and specific

Promotional and instructive
Suitable for training in specific sectors
A "gateway" to further information and advice
Written in plain, simple language
Available in appropriate languages
Usefully illustrated
Containing good practical examples of use to SLDBs
Relatively inexpensive (or free) to print and distribute
Including advice on the approaches to HACCP implementation,
particularly hazard identification, identification of CCPs and
validation/verification of HACCP systems
Relevant to problems faced by a specific sector
Can communicate simple messages well

Likely to be read if written and published
correctly
Offers first introduction to the subject and
available services
Provides continuing support as new people
enter a food business
Functions as reference material
Can engage SLDBs initially
Enhances awareness and commitment of
SLDBs
Can signal support for SLDBs
Examples
Manuals
"How To" guides
Technical references
Hazard guides
Promotional documents
Videos
Initial engagement must be followed up by

other means, because SLDBs may need more
detailed help to implement HACCP
SLDBs often need support with further lines of
advice and communication
Nuances or complexity are not communicated
Certain level of literacy in recipient is assumed
Examples of publications are given below:

x
In Chile, the Agriculture and Livestock Service, Department of Agriculture, developed several
guidance documents on GMP, HACCP, traceability and other food safety subjects (SAG,
2006).
29
In Argentina, the Phytosanitary and Food Safety Agency, Department of Agriculture,

developed several guidance documents for evaluation of HACCP in the meat and poultry
sector and criteria for evaluating HACCP auditors (SENASA, 2001).
In Peru, the Peruvian Asparagus and Other Vegetables Institute6 and the Peruvian Export
Promotion Agency7 developed a model and a technical standard for the safe production of
asparagus that was successfully implemented throughout the country (the third asparagus
producer worldwide) (PROMPEX and IPEH, 2004).
4.1.3 Provision of HACCP training
Training is essential for the implementation of a sustainable HACCP system and no government
strategy should neglect this element. The provision of short formal and informal training for
SLDB staff is examined herein. SLDBs have specific training challenges due to their size and
financial constraints (see Chapter 2), and it is important to identify the respective needs of all
food business operators. It is the responsibility of governments to facilitate the availability and
delivery of appropriate training to the SLDB sector.
Initiatives vary depending on the education structure in a country. For example:
x
Some governments have sponsored and organized formal training courses provided by
selected commercial entities or other institutions e.g. Thailand (Keeratipibul, Tutanathorn
and FAO, 2002), Brazil (Gelli and FAO, 2002) and Chile (Quintana and FAO, 2002).
In Costa Rica, the Center for Food Technology Research and Transfer runs a training and
assistance GMP/HACCP programme covering several countries in Central America; since
1990, it has had support from the Seafood HACCP Alliance (United States of America), the
Natural Resources Institute (United Kingdom) and the Multinational Project for Quality
Management and Productivity of SLDB (Organization of American States [OAS]).8
Countries without the resources to formally establish and sponsor training can set standards
for courses developed by third parties (e.g. trade organizations) or develop documents with
an approved syllabus for HACCP training courses. The documents can be used by SLDBs to
determine whether the training they are investing in is of the correct standard. Such
documents have been developed and used in Ireland.
In New Zealand, the regulator has worked alongside training organizations to develop unit
standards for HACCP (including on-site assessments of food businesses to determine the
food handlers competency).
In Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency has a partnership with a national training
organization to develop training material for the seafood processing sector. The National
Seafood Sector Council has developed and facilitated delivery of training across Canada in
HACCP, personal hygiene, sanitation etc. (NSSC, 1996-2006).
A further initiative involves sponsoring experts to go into SLDBs and provide in-house advice
and training specific to the business (Gelli, 2002; Costarrica, 2004) it is resource intensive, but
extremely effective. Whatever approach to training is adopted, it must take into account the level
6
www.ipeh.org/index.asp
www.prompex.gob.pe
8 http://www.cita.ucr.ac.cr
7
30
of literacy and numeracy within the SLDB and it must be aware of any time and financial
limitations. Where food workers have a knowledge of basic hygiene principles (e.g. through
elementary schooling), it is possible to optimize the resources invested in HACCP training.
HACCP training
Some features
Advantages
Short and specific for food business

Facilitates flow of information and skills development
Covers prerequisite programmes as well as HACCP
Does not take staff away from SLDBs for long periods
Practical sector-oriented rather than theoretical
Element of follow-up in business itself:
x practical help in implementing newly learned information
x checks that learning outcomes have been realized
x mechanism to verify that training outcomes are consistent with the
national approach, such as a government standard or an approved
syllabus
Cost accessible
Widely available
Includes "train the trainers" component
Developed in consultation with SLDBs
Accessible when needed
Facilitates implementation of HACCP

Aligned with enforcement standards
where HACCP is mandatory, but
flexible enough to facilitate HACCP
application in SLDBs
Can be tailored towards SLDB needs
and processes
Demonstrates government support for
SLDBs
Examples
On-site training and internal training

Self-learning including distance learning
Provision of case studies and materials
Established syllabus course with uniform content
Can be resource-intensive in SLDBs

(costs include time and human
resources)
Requires support structures and
follow-up
4.1.4 Voluntary schemes
HACCP or HACCP-based systems may be implemented through voluntary programmes. In

some cases, implementation can be in stages: starting with voluntary HACCP and progressing to
mandatory HACCP. Voluntary and mandatory schemes can also be implemented in parallel,
depending on various factors, including the food business sector and the importing country
requirements (Costarrica, 2004).
Regardless of whether HACCP is mandatory or voluntary, SLDBs require guidance and resources
to assist them in applying a successful HACCP system. Examples of voluntary schemes are given
below:
x
x
In Malaysia, HACCP implementation by food companies is voluntary (Merican, 2000).

The Thai Department of Fisheries has used voluntary HACCP programmes to enhance food
safety practices, standards and the process for approval of fishery products for export
(Suwanrangsi and Keerativiriyaporn, 2004).
SafeFood Production NSW in Australia has introduced a voluntary HACCP-based food
safety plan for the goat milk industry (SafeFood Production New South Wales, 2003.).
31
Voluntary schemes
Some features
May precede mandatory schemes or complement them in certain sectors
Do not require transition phase for implementation
Require government information campaign to publicize programme and benefits
Open to application from all types of food business
May include an award/mark for businesses demonstrating compliance
May have greater application in the domestic markets where importing country requirements do not need to be
considered
May be developed by government or food industry associations
Need to emphasize the benefits of HACCP to small businesses
Advantages
Disadvantages
Businesses can develop and implement the system at

their own rate
Free choice to implement the system, therefore
business should have desire to succeed
Clear management commitment
Less pressure on government as businesses gradually
adopt the scheme, and hence stagger the rate at which
they require assessment of their conformity
May relieve the burden on inspection rates, with those
premises following the voluntary scheme being
inspected less frequently
May reduce burden on laboratory analysis of endproducts
High-risk premises may not apply for voluntary

approach; may therefore operate without best
practices
Food businesses may improve food safety
management systems at varying rate
May not contribute to higher levels of national food
safety where take-up by businesses is low
Food inspection services may interpret the
requirements differently, leading to non-uniform
application
Less influence by government agency and so difficult
to measure impact throughout food businesses
4.1.5 Mandatory provisions and enforcement
Promoting HACCP as a legal requirement can facilitate its implementation in SLDBs but only
if the required support is provided. The majority of SLDBs want to comply with the law but may
not be able to do so for a wide variety of reasons. Governments should therefore consider
implementing a voluntary HACCP scheme prior to the introduction of mandatory HACCP.
Mandatory HACCP should only be used as part of an overall strategy that includes advice,
training and means of support outlined in this chapter, including the application of GHPs. Risk
to consumers should be taken into consideration and those food sectors that are a significant
source of food-borne illness should be targeted.
Enforcement officers and inspectors are often the only available technically qualified personnel
with whom SLDBs have regular contact. While their primary task is to ensure compliance with
legal requirements, they also have an important advisory role. For this reason, enforcement
officers should not be directly involved in developing the HACCP system for SLDBs; on the
contrary, they may guide an SLDB towards compliance by providing sources of advice and
training. If enforcement officers do provide advice on HACCP plan development or
implementation, it should be made clear how this may affect their enforcement role. One guiding
principle may be that any advice given by enforcement officers is given in the context of meeting
the requirements. In some countries, separate roles are formulated: officers responsible for
enforcement, and officers with advisory or educational roles.
32
SLDBs should be encouraged and given sufficient time to comply with mandatory HACCP. The
enforcement policy of a country is a matter for national governments and depends on social and
economic issues. There is evidence that HACCP implementation is enhanced if legal action is
used appropriately and reserved for those businesses which consistently demonstrate
unwillingness to comply.
The introduction in stages of mandatory provisions can be effective. For example, when
implementing HACCP in a specific sector, voluntary compliance could be permitted for a certain
period (with the option of offering incentives) before making the provisions mandatory. The
sector is thus in a position to identify the hazards of concern and develop appropriate systems for
control in reasonable time. In some countries, HACCP has been mandatory for export food
plants and gradually introduced to the domestic sectors. Appropriate communication should be
made of any such measures.
Mandatory provisions
Some features
Implemented after GHP programmes are in place
Introduced as part of holistic legal framework
Gradual implementation of mandatory requirements
Flexible drafting of legal requirements focusing on principles of HACCP rather than on the process of
implementing it
Implemented with associated enforcement policy
Stepwise approach towards enforcement
Wide communication of legal requirements and enforcement policy
Consistent enforcement in line with enforcement policy
Preceded by provisional voluntary scheme and suitable training where appropriate
Availability of "tools" (codes, templates etc.) to aid implementation developed in consultation with members of
the relevant food sector
Advantages
Disadvantages
Demonstrate national intent for HACCP implementation

Allow for legal protection of public health
Act as additional lever for HACCP implementation
Increase credibility among importing countries
With appropriate support and enforcement, can reduce time
for HACCP implementation
Reduce requirement for businesses to assess hazards
associated with incoming goods, where goods are sourced
from a business operating according to HACCP principles
Will not work without associated support structure

for SLDBs
Could result in unacceptable social and economic
impact
Can stifle innovative HACCP implementation if
legal requirement drafted too rigidly
Misuse of resources where prerequisite
programmes still lacking
4.1.6 HACCP certification
Certification is a procedure by which a third party gives written assurance that a product or a
process is in conformity with the corresponding standard. The certificate is a convincing
demonstration to the buyer that the supplier complies with certain standards.
Certification systems for compliance with an agreed HACCP standard are implemented in many
countries as part of voluntary or mandatory programmes. They can be linked to international
33
schemes, such as British Retail Consortium (BRC) or Safe Quality Food Standard. In many
countries, the retail sector is increasingly directly involved; it has developed its own standards
outlining the requirements and conditions which must be met by suppliers.
HACCP certification
Some features
Requires sound standard to assess compliance
Includes assessment of GHPs as well as HACCP
Needs trained and qualified third party auditors
Requires promotion among food businesses to ensure uptake
Should not be too costly or cumbersome a process
Established by government or private groups
Can be within a voluntary or mandatory programme
Advantages
Disadvantages
Can raise levels of food safety

Can facilitate trade and assessment of quality
programmes between different stages in the food
chain
Can reduce pressure on national food control
system
Can facilitate national and international trade
Independent assessment of food business
May provide false sense of security if not properly

implemented
May not have adequate emphasis on food safety
requirements
Additional costs to food businesses may exclude SLDBs
Too many certification schemes may confuse food
businesses
May over-emphasize attaining a certificate without focusing
on potential food hazards
Requires third party auditors
4.1.7 Provision of technical expertise by consultants and other advisors
SLDBs are limited by the technical capacity at their disposal; consequently, they often require
external technical help from government, trade associations, education institutions or commercial
advisors. The growth of HACCP is mirrored by the growth in available advice. However, not all
advice is appropriate or applicable and the quality of professional advice can vary considerably
among consultants. Consultants may have the required HACCP knowledge, but they may make
its implementation very complicated for SLDBs; in other cases, consultants may lack practical
knowledge in a specific field.
Ideally, a government ensures that the provision of advice is regulated. In reality, governments
rarely have the resources to do this. However, governments can seek to ensure that approved
sources of advice are available and accessible; to this end, various measures can be taken:
x
Many governments link up with education institutes to deliver training and consultancy or
they support trade association initiatives; however, given the sheer number of SLDBs, it is
difficult to meet the demand for advice.
Guidelines help SLDBs select consultants; but this does not give a 100 percent success rate
(e.g. Ireland).
Some countries have systems of consultant registration and certification useful for
maintaining the quality of advice. In New Zealand, for example, consultants are assessed
against a unit standard, and they can be recognized as being competent in that area.
34
Written advice can be provided to food businesses to assist them in selecting an appropriate
food consultant.
A system of registration for consultants is in place in South Africa, where natural scientists
(including HACCP trainers) register with the South African Council for Natural and Scientific
Professions (SACNASP). This organization has been recently mandated through a
parliamentary act to take legal action and prosecute those members who do not act
professionally according to the Code of Conduct of SACNASP (SACNASP, 2003). The Web
site includes a copy of the act, as well as the application process, registration criteria,
application forms and application fees.
Groups of SLDBs can be created to access a single source of advice, share experiences and to
some extent learn from each other; this can also lead to reduced costs for SLDBs in securing
advice.
Technical expertise provided by consultants and other advisors

Some features
Advice and training linked to national strategy
Government organization/approval of education institutes and trade organizations
Regulation of freelance consultants to ensure high quality of advice for:
x registration
x certification
Clear communication with SLDBs to indicate where best advice is available
Easily accessible to SLDBs
Advantages
Disadvantages
Supports HACCP strategy

Develops skills within SLDB
Reduces government expenditure
Provides on-site technical support critical to HACCP
implementation in SLDBs
Can be resource intensive for governments to set

up and regulate
Difficult for government to properly manage such
systems
Can be a source of poor information
Costs passed on to SLDBs
In addition to the activities described, there are other steps that governments may take in order to
successfully implement their HACCP strategy:
x
x
Conduct cost/benefit analysis to help SLDBs with financial planning.

Develop effective communication systems between different government bodies and between
government and SLDBs (directly or via organized groups) to ensure a consistent message and
reduce the likelihood of misunderstandings.
Facilitate transfer of expertise from more developed businesses to SLDBs: a large business
can assist a small supplier in the development of its HACCP plan or it can provide technical
support to similar SLDBs. Such arrangements are to the benefit of the larger partner in that
the reputation of the food sector is better protected.
Create small clusters of SLDBs to share available resources and pool experiences and
technical understanding.
Fund local resource centres where low-cost HACCP guidance/support/training can be made
available.
35
x
x
Consider how to maintain continued support to ensure that GHP and HACCP are
understood and implemented correctly.
Develop educational curricula on GHP/HACCP for schools and universities.
Develop Internet- or CD ROM-based training courses to provide low-cost effective training
programmes or guidelines on HACCP.
4.2 HACCP-BASED APPROACHES
The Codex general guidelines allow for a degree of flexibility in interpreting its methodology
provided they are underpinned by all seven HACCP principles. Alternative methods, often
referred to as "HACCP-based approaches", may be the best way of facilitating HACCP
implementation in SLDBs as they offer various means for achieving the same objective.
Nevertheless, where HACCP-based plans are introduced, notification must be communicated to
all national stakeholders to obtain consensus.
If a national government decides to develop HACCP-based approaches as part of its HACCP
strategy, programmes should be tested on a small number of businesses prior to a full launch in
all food businesses. A pilot programme should be carefully monitored and the outcomes used to
fine-tune the approach.
There are pros and cons to HACCP-based approaches, but they are not all applicable to all forms
of HACCP-based approaches.
HACCP-based approaches
Advantages
Disadvantages
Improved food safety

Integration within overall food safety management
system
Facilitate and speed up HACCP and prerequisite
programme implementation
Clear guidance for good practices related to hygiene
and safety
Good basis for training and education
Encourage instructed, continuous and consistent
application of HACCP in SLDBs
Strengthen audit and enforcement measures
Provide more prescriptive HACCP solutions
favoured by SLDBs
Easier to assemble and manage
Do not require SLDB staff to have in-depth
knowledge of HACCP and related technical
expertise
Provide useful holistic overview
Record keeping at elementary level (documentation
usually covered by guidance document itself: no
extra work for SLDB)
International trade partners may require proof of

equivalence to Codex HACCP system
Unlikely to be implemented without adequate training
Limited effectiveness in SLDBs with low literacy skills,
unless very specific HACCP-based approaches are
developed for this target group
Resource-intensive during development, unless
supported by extensive structure of trade associations or
other industry groupings
May not always be specific for SLDBs but targeted at all
sizes of industry in a particular sector
Need to be validated for effectiveness
Lack of organization of SLDBs into trade groups may not
favour use of these approaches
Focus may be on the documented plan rather than its
actual application in the business
Difficult to anticipate all hazards introduced by subtle
variations on seemingly standard processes
Element of technical knowledge required to adapt them
Some of the HACCP-based approaches developed and implemented by national governments

and other concerned parties are explained below.
36
4.2.1 Codes and standards documents
Codes and standards documents (e.g. codes of hygienic practice, agreed national standards) are
voluntary or mandatory (depending on government policy), sector-specific, detailed sets of rules
and practices aimed at providing information and facilitating HACCP implementation. Codes and
standards documents vary in terms of the level of detail they provide on HACCP; they usually
also cover the related elements (e.g. prerequisite programmes, recall procedures, traceability,
management commitment) and may actually describe a full food safety management system. The
final document may be government approved: SLDBs conforming to the code or standard are
considered to comply with the law.
Hygiene codes work well in the Netherlands, for example: food businesses are compelled by law
to be members of their respective trade association, which results in strong trade association
coverage and support to the food sector (see Annex 1).
Some features of effective codes and standards documents:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Cover the related elements (e.g. prerequisite programmes, recall procedures, traceability,
management commitment) and provide a full food safety management system.
Written and approved by governments in collaboration with SLDBs directly or through
industry associations.
Technical decisions carried out by qualified expert.
Recognized by enforcement officers.
Written in plain and simple language (HACCP jargon may be replaced with simple language
e.g. "hazards" is replaced with "things that can go wrong" and "things that may harm
consumers").
Flexible and "tailor-made" to cater for the needs of SLDBs.
Sector-specific (e.g. bakery, slaughterhouse, street vendors).
Identify classical CCPs, critical limits and corrective actions.
Support simple forms of record keeping (e.g. temperature management, cleaning
programmes, incoming raw materials).
Accessible and well distributed.
Supported with readily available advice.
4.2.2 Generic HACCP-based plans
Generic HACCP-based plans have been generated by governments and other stakeholders to
help SLDBs implement HACCP. A pre-developed general HACCP plan needs to be further
tailored and adapted by the individual food business; its basic format is as follows:
x
x
x
x
A flow diagram describes the food process to which the generic plan is applicable.
Hazard analysis is completed and the most common critical control points (CCPs) and their
critical limits are identified.
Corrective actions are detailed.
Guidance on documentation is often given.
37
Well-known examples of this approach have been developed by the United States Department of
Agriculture (USDA) covering meat and poultry establishments (e.g. USDA Generic Model for
Poultry Slaughter, 1999).
Generic plans aim to help food operators think through the food safety problems that can occur
and how they can be controlled; they enable food businesses to adapt to site-specific variations in
process and product. The approach is best suited to businesses operating processes that are
consistent within the sector, in particular linear processes (e.g. animal slaughter, meat cutting,
fruit and vegetable washing and packing). They are less appropriate for complex multi-pathway
processes (e.g. in the retail and catering sectors), where an alternative method is to assemble
individual generic plans using a modular approach:
x
x
x
x
x
Subprocess components are chosen from various generic plans (sometimes termed "pick and
plug"), and are then assembled into a tailor-made HACCP plan.
Hazards are identified and CCPs and critical limits set for each of the subprocesses.
Food business selects subprocesses relevant to its own business.
Can be used to generate numerous different HACCP plans for multiple processes.
Level of interpretation and customization by the SLDB is required.
New Zealand has successfully used the modular approach (see Annex 1), as has Northern Ireland
(FSANI, 2003). In addition, a generic HACCP-based plan for eggs is being promoted in New
Zealand (NZFSA, 2004).
Generic HACCP-based plans vary in the amount of support they offer. Some plans identify the
appropriate hazards, while others only suggest the possible hazards (requiring the SLDB to select
the hazards applicable to their own processes). Some require the HACCP plan to be developed
from the reference documents provided, while others generate the modular documents in such a
way that they can actually become the documented HACCP plan (in this respect they often
resemble a workbook).
In the latter case, the food business owner/manager works from the start to the end of the
workbook completing the sections as directed taking into account the actual processes used in
their own SLDB. The completed workbook becomes the plan. Most systems developed to date
still require a moderate level of record keeping. However, recent developments have provided
modular systems where the daily record-keeping requirement is minimal (FSANI, 2003).
Because these HACCP-based systems do not look like traditionally developed HACCP systems,
it is essential that governments are involved in their development. This is particularly important
where a strategy includes mandatory HACCP, because enforcement officers may not recognize
the system as compliant. It is important that SLDBs and enforcement officers undergo similar
training.
Some features of effective generic HACCP-based plans:
x
Developed in collaboration with all stakeholders (government officials, SLDBs, trade

associations, educators etc.).
Specific to a sector where processes are similar.
38
x
x
x
x
x
x
Provide a documented hazard analysis and associated references.

Provide a standardized layout for the whole plan which includes CCPs, their critical limits and
corrective actions.
Explain briefly how the critical limits control the hazard(s).
Provide examples of documentation and guidelines on its completion.
Outline methods and frequencies of verification and validation.
Clearly communicate the need for on-site adaptation.
4.2.3 Evolving HACCP-based methodologies
Evolving HACCP-based methodologies lie between traditional approaches (created by and

wholly specific to a particular business) and completely generic approaches (involving the
application of previously prepared plans and controls). The difficulties faced by SLDBs are
discussed earlier in this document (see Chapter 2) and intermediate systems have been developed
to address these problems. These systems may at first seem too far removed from Codex
HACCP. However, if they are firmly based on the seven principles, they are likely to offer a way
forward for those SLDBs which find traditional methods of HACCP too difficult, timeconsuming or costly to implement. Evolving HACCP-based methodologies apply one or more of
the following methods:
x
x
x
Supplying businesses with information on risks and hazards pertinent to their particular type
of food production in order to reduce the levels of scientific knowledge and judgement
required by the business.
Merging both the general (i.e. prerequisite) and specific (i.e. HACCP) hazards in a way that
businesses can understand and therefore control.
Grouping similar hazards and controls to facilitate the operation of HACCP by the business.
Utilizing methods that reduce the quantity of record keeping (e.g. use of a "diary" or
simplified records based on "management by exception").
Refocusing enforcement and audit requirements onto the businesss understanding and
control of processes (this might be typified as "self-audit" monitoring).
An example of the use of one of these evolving methodologies is the "Safer Food Better
Business" system developed by the United Kingdom Food Standards Agency (see Annex 1):
x
x
x
Merges both the general (i.e. prerequisite) and specific (i.e. HACCP) hazards.
Criticality is indicated by the level and frequency of monitoring required.
Record keeping focuses on a diary signed on a daily basis by the person responsible for food
safety.
Record keeping is by exception, i.e. making a written record only when things go wrong and
corrective actions are undertaken.
Verification done routinely by self-audit, i.e. activity is undertaken by the manager responsible
and intermittently by official enforcement officers.
39
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CFIA (Canadian Food Inspection Agency). 2004. HACCP: a national survey of federally
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43
ANNEX 1
Overview of national approaches to facilitate
HACCP application in SLDBs9
The extent to which governments are involved in facilitating HACCP implementation is a matter
of national policy. Many governments, faced with a low level of HACCP uptake in the food
industry, make policy decisions to facilitate implementation. However, the approach taken
depends on the objectives set by the national policy itself. Following an analysis of the existing
levels of implementation, most countries examine the barriers facing the food industry and
attempt to overcome them through the realization of specially developed initiatives. Some
governments attempt to measure HACCP compliance at the start and end of initiatives to gauge
the effect and assess value for money. The types of initiative depend on cultural, economic,
organizational and geographical factors, which vary from country to country.
The case study summaries below are a useful reference. They give a good indication of the wide
range of activities and different approaches adopted to support HACCP application in SLDBs.
Food safety systems tend to be more advanced in food businesses involved in food export, while
foods destined for domestic markets are generally produced under less controlled conditions.
Brazil
NATIONAL FACTORS SUPPORTING APPROACH
x
Food control in Brazil is managed by several parties, principally the Ministry of Health, the
Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply, and the Ministry of Industry, Development
and Trade.
The control system is evaluated and revised to reflect the evolution of the production process
and economic and social development in Brazil. Initially an isolated system of regulations and
actions, it has developed into a broader integrated system.
The government has been seeking to improve efficiency, involving institutions with their own
managerial resources and a degree of autonomy.
In 1999, the National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) was created to: protect and
promote the population's health; ensure the safety of products and services; and encourage
participation of the population when developing policies and programmes.
Regulatory decisions are made on the basis of the three recognized ANVISA values:
knowledge, transparency and accountability.
ANVISA promotes training of its own labour force and of the staff of the National Health
Surveillance System, which includes professionals from the states, municipalities and federal
districts.
Partnerships with education and research institutions are being established.
The authors of the case study summaries are listed on p. x.
45
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE APPROACH AND OUTCOMES TO DATE

x
Staff training is important for the implementation of the new food safety regulations:
The partnership with the University of Brasilia, by means of the post-graduate specialist
course in health surveillance, led to the graduation of over 300 specialists.
The Pan-American Health Organization, through the Pan-American Institute for Food
Protection and Zoonoses, organizes courses for technicians and auditors in HACCP and
provides training for a further 1 254 health surveillance technicians at state and municipal
level.
Through the partnership with the National Industrial Training Service, over
3 500 technicians from the food industry and food service enterprises have been trained
in the implementation of HACCP methodology in their activities.
The nationwide "Safe Foods Program" disseminates knowledge and provides guidance to
small and medium-sized food enterprises concerning good manufacturing and handling
practices, resulting in an increase in the supply of safe foods.
The "Portal for Scientific Information on Health Surveillance" established by ANVISA, in
partnership with the Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Information Center
provides online access to the main international sources of health information, including
bibliographical collections, catalogues of Web sites related to health surveillance and
directories of regulatory and research institutions from several countries.
Risk analysis procedures allow ANVISA, in health surveillance activities, to initiate a
pioneering and innovative process of deregulation of registration for a significant number of
food groups, assessed as being low risk for human consumption. Such action allows
ANVISA to employ its resources more efficiently and effectively, concentrating its efforts on
high-risk groups of food products.
LESSONS LEARNED AND THE FUTURE

x
The focus on risk analysis allows ANVISA to update the existing regulatory framework,
working in partnership with a significant number of education, scientific and technological
research institutions, within the country and abroad.
At present, ANVISA relies on a technical food committee (with representatives from seven
universities), a technical-scientific commission on functional foods for evaluation of new
foods and claims on labels (representatives from nine other universities) and technical groups
with specialists in the areas of food additives, food packaging materials and food safety
assessment (representatives from universities and research centres).
Transparency in the regulation process is achieved through the participation of food
producers, consumers and professional associations in the regulation-building process: open
public consultation to gather input from interested parties.
The decentralization of regulation and sanitary inspection activities in countries with large
territories such as Brazil is an important issue. The Unified Health System brings together all
health organizations, both public and private although private organizations only participate
in a supplementary manner. ANVISA is one of the organizations in this system. It operates in
a decentralized manner, with responsibilities shared among the federal, state, district and
municipal governments.
46
Annex 1
It is increasingly important to understand the external environment through participation in

international fora such as Codex Alimentarius, Mercosur (the free trade agreement between
Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay), the SPS Agreement (Agreement on the Application
of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures), the Biodiversity Convention (Cartagena Protocol)
and other international agreements. By understanding the external environment, the food
production sector and exporters can be increasingly involved in international food trade.
Cameroon
NATIONAL FACTORS SUPPORTING THE APPROACH
x
x
x
Since 2000, a government structure has existed for the normalization and certification of food
products.
The Cameroon Ministry of Public Health has issued a guide on the handling of foods sold in
public places.
Since 1990, numerous consumer associations have existed.
The industrial sector and the state collaborate to control the quality of locally produced foods
as well as imported foods.
Educational institutions train engineers and technicians specialized in food quality control.
Different ministries have different roles (often assisted by consumer associations):

x
x
x
x
x
The Ministry of Public Health must safeguard the health of consumers and is, therefore,
responsible for food safety. Controls are carried out to ensure conformity to manufacturing
norms, labelling regulations and nutrition composition requirements. Inspections target
production units (breweries, salt factories, milk products companies, bakeries etc., focusing
on the production environment), finished or imported food products, and the equipment and
utensils used to handle foods.
The Ministry of Agriculture is responsible for the registration of agricultural inputs
(fertilizers, pesticides etc.) and carries out phytosanitary controls through decentralized
services at provincial and divisional level.
The Ministry of Trade and Industry is responsible for the elaboration of national norms.
The Ministry of Fishery and Animal Husbandry registers veterinary products and carries out
controls at abattoirs, ports and markets through decentralized services at provincial and
divisional level.
The Ministry of Water carries out controls mostly on mineral water.
The Ministry of Higher Education is responsible for fundamental and applied research in
food quality and for training of food quality engineers and technicians.
Controls and inspections reveal occurrences of the following:

x
x
x
Use of pesticides and insecticides to preserve food.

Poor hygienic conditions in restaurants and where food is sold in public places.
Poor cold-chain facilities resulting in meat and fish becoming spoiled.
47
x
x
x
Absence of adherence to labelling requirements.

Lack of awareness of food norms among manufacturers and food importers.
Presence of expired food products on the market.
Major difficulties include the following:

x
x
Absence of facilities and infrastructure, and shortage of qualified staff.

Lack of knowledge of elaborated and international norms for controls among most interested
partners, importers, local producers etc.
Absence of coordinated action in the food sector.
It is difficult to coordinate the operations of the numerous ministries involved: as a result,

HACCP application is not very rigorous in Cameroon. It is therefore imperative to identify all
institutions directly and indirectly involved, define their responsibilities and establish a framework
of coordination and partnership. In the long term, a food safety agency should be created.
Canada
x
There is no national policy for HACCP implementation. Three levels of government (federal,
provincial and municipal) are responsible for food safety and each authority has adopted
differing strategies to address food safety challenges.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is responsible for all federal inspection
activities related to food safety, including foods which are imported into Canada or which are
destined for export out of Canada or between provinces.
The CFIA has two strategies for HACCP implementation for federally registered food
processing establishments:
Quality Management Program (QMP) for the fish processing sector mandatory since
1992 and implemented in approximately 1 000 establishments.
Food Safety Enhancement Program (FSEP) for the agrifood sector (meat, processed fruit
and vegetables, egg, dairy, honey and maple syrup) currently a voluntary programme,
but legislation amendments will be passed in the near future to make it mandatory for the
meat processing sector.
The CFIA is also working with industry on an on-farm food safety programme, to implement
food safety systems based on HACCP at farm level.
The CFIA was formed in 1997, amalgamating the food safety responsibilities of three different
federal departments and bringing together separate food safety strategies for the different food
sectors. These strategies (QMP and FSEP) have continued to evolve to address the specific
48
Annex 1
challenges of the different sectors. However experiences are shared between the two programmes
to facilitate harmonization and improvement.
The fish-processing sector in Canada is large and diverse and heavily reliant on international
markets. Over 80 percent of Canadian fish products are exported to some 125 different countries
each year with a value in 2003 of Can$4.7 billion. As HACCP is a requirement for imports to
most of these markets, its effective implementation is essential for maintaining this important
industry. The Canadian Government worked closely with industry, associations and institutions
to ensure that the necessary tools and guidance are available to facilitate the design and
implementation of individual processor QMP plans. In consideration of the technical and
resource challenges facing industry, it was necessary to design a programme which is flexible but
which at the same time adequately addresses all food safety concerns.
FSEP recognizes and audits HACCP systems (prerequisite programmes and HACCP plans) in
federally registered establishments within the commodities of meat and poultry, processed
products, dairy, shell eggs, processed eggs, honey, maple and hatcheries. The CFIA adopts a
voluntary approach in all of the aforementioned commodities, with the exception of meat and
poultry, where HACCP is expected to become mandatory. The agency will investigate the
potential for the remaining commodities with regard to mandatory requirements, taking into
account the industry readiness and international requirements.
The design and implementation of QMP and FSEP is a learning experience. The most significant
lessons learned to date are as follows:
x
Take a stepwise approach to industry implementation. Do not expect industry to be able to

implement everything right away, but work towards continuous improvement and focus on
what has been accomplished and not on what the processor has left to do.
Listen and communicate. When a processor has a problem with certain requirements, it is not
because he does not want to produce a safe product, it is because he may not understand the
requirement or its importance. Be willing to listen, have the requirements clearly laid out and
communicate them.
Be flexible. Allow the processors to develop a HACCP system to fit their operation; this will
increase ownership and lead to more effective implementation and continuous improvement.
Provide tools to assist the processor in understanding the requirements, for example, guides
and Web sites.
Avoid generic plans. Generic plans lead to a forced fit. In QMP, example plans based on
industry input were provided and used for illustrative purposes only.
Apply a clear enforcement process for those who fail to comply with a regulatory
programme. It is important to be neither too strict nor too soft on enforcement
commitment will be lower if processors do not think they will be assessed and programme
effectiveness will suffer as a consequence.
To date, most of the effort has been directed at HACCP design implementation. For the future,
it is important to be able to measure the performance of the food safety strategies. Indicators
must be identified to demonstrate that food safety is actually being achieved. This process will
49
produce data and information on the effectiveness of both the individual processors controls
and the programme design and maintenance.
India
x
x
x
x
Legislation exists to specifically address exports; in some areas (seafood, dairy, poultry, eggs,
honey), GHP and HACCP implementation is mandatory.
A single body organizes the official export certification process.
HACCP for exports is already implemented in around 450 units.
There is a large pool of official auditors.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE APPROACHES AND OUTCOMES TO DATE
A number of organizations have a role in the regulatory policies for food safety. The Ministry of
Health and Family Welfare is responsible for food safety at domestic level, including food
imports. While HACCP implementation is not currently mandatory in the domestic sector, there
is a well-defined export control system.
The Export (Quality Control and Inspection) Act 1963 empowers central government to: notify
commodities for pre-shipment inspection and certification; specify minimum standards (generally
recognizing international, importing countries standards and contractual specifications); and
prescribe the system of export inspection and certification (consignment-wise or a systems
approach). The system of export control is operated by the Export Inspection Council of India
(EIC Indias official export certification body) through its regional organizations, export
inspection agencies (with head offices in Chennai, Delhi, Kochi, Kolkata and Mumbai and
41 sub-offices including laboratories around the country).
Over the years, under the provision of the act, nearly 1 000 commodities have been notified by
the government for pre-shipment inspection and certification prior to export. Sectors covered
include chemicals, pesticides, rubber products, engineering products, food and agricultural
produce, textiles and footwear. Food is one of the major areas and includes Basmati rice, black
pepper, marine products, fruit and vegetable products, egg products and dairy produce.
Inspection and certification of all notified commodities were initially compulsory, but in the early
1990s (as part of economic reforms), export certification procedures were simplified allowing
various categories of exporters to be exempt from compulsory pre-shipment inspection and
certification by EIC. However, with the establishment of the WTO, quality issues gained
significance, as did the role of standards and legislation, especially in relation to food safety.
Marine products, egg products, dairy produce, poultry products, meat and meat products, and
honey are subject to compulsory export certification by EIC. Certification is not compulsory for
other food products (although many of them are notified under the act) and in many cases (e.g.
when an importing country demands certification), EIC certifies the products on a voluntary
basis.
50
Annex 1
In most of the above products, Food Safety Management Systems based Certification is
implemented, based on Codex HACCP/GMP/GHP. The certification system involves approval
of the units (based on an assessment against the requirements prescribed in the respective
notifications), followed by periodic surveillance by EIC with a three-tier approach:
x
Periodic monitoring: check records; process controls including sanitation and hygiene; take
samples of raw material, water, ice, swabs, processed/finished products etc. for independent
testing for various parameters.
Supervisory visits by senior level officials: ensure compliance by units and monitoring
officers.
Corporate audits by head office: check compliance and effectiveness of the system; build
accountability of the regional offices.
The above approach, in which HACCP is a part of the system, is being implemented in more
than 450 export-based food-processing units in the areas of fish and fishery products, dairy
products, poultry products, meat and meat products, and egg products.
In addition to EIC, export promotion bodies are important for assisting processing units to
implement HACCP. Such promotional bodies are active in various sectors (e.g. marine, spices,
agricultural and tea). They develop guidelines and modules for specific sectors and organize
projects for groups of industries to assist in HACCP implementation and similar activities. For
example, the Agricultural Processed Food Products Development Authority oversaw a mango
pulp processing project: the project lasted about 2 years and assistance was provided to around
24 export units to implement HACCP.
To date, the emphasis has been on HACCP in export-oriented units, but the focus is now
shifting to domestic industries. Efforts are being made to introduce GAP (good agricultural
practices) at the primary production levels with the involvement of promotional bodies as well as
the Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Some of the initiatives
taken are described below:
x
A HACCP accreditation programme is being established by the National Accreditation Body

in India, the Quality Council of India.
HACCP implementation in the country is being further intensified through a World-Bankassisted capacity-building project implemented with the collaboration of the Ministry of
Health and Family Welfare.
Sectors identified in the first phase include: dairy, meat and poultry, fruits and vegetables,
bakery and hospitality. The aim is to prepare training manuals and initiate training in HACCP.
The second phase covers seafood, infant food, sweets and confectionery, ice cream and
frozen confectionery, and institutional catering.
Training manuals were prepared for the first phase. Training in HACCP, GMP and GLP
(good laboratory practices) for industry is conducted in association with trade associations,
including the Confederation of Indian Food, Trade and Industry, Federation of Indian
Chamber of Commerce and Industry, hotel and restaurant associations, National Dairy
Development Board and Confederation of Indian Industry.
51
HACCP-based training modules for certain sectors (e.g. dairy, meat and poultry, fruits and
vegetables, bakery and hospitality) have already been developed, while others are under
development.
A HACCP stand-alone certification scheme is being developed by EIC, based on Codex
HACCP; it will specifically address the export-oriented units to meet the Codex requirements
and those of importing countries.
Ireland
x
x
x
x
x
x
There is a national policy for consumer protection and HACCP compliance.

National legislation requires HACCP in food businesses for 4 years prior to any initiative.
A single body organizes the official inspection process.
The official inspectorate is well trained, motivated and resourced.
There are motivated trade associations.
Ample third party expertise is available for the food industry.
The Irish Government set up an independent government agency, the Food Safety Authority of
Ireland (FSAI), to oversee national food safety in 1999. One of the FSAIs policies was to
improve the compliance of the food industry to European Community legislation requiring food
businesses to have a food safety management system based on HACCP principles.
A telephone survey of food businesses was conducted in 2000 to determine the level of
compliance with established European legislation and to identify barriers to successful HACCP
implementation.10 This was followed by a workshop involving official inspectors and the food
industry. At the workshop, a national HACCP strategy was developed with input from all
stakeholders. The strategy was defined in detail by a national HACCP steering group consisting
of representatives of the FSAI and ten health boards responsible for inspecting 40 000 of the
43 000 food businesses in Ireland.11 Most of these businesses are in the retail and food service
sectors and are SLDBs. At the same time, an industry forum was created with representatives
from the food service sector. A forum consisting of retailers already existed.
The strategy was executed in steps focusing all resources on one target group at a time. Target
groups were selected based on the risk posed to consumer health and on the resources available
to help that group. HACCP information was developed for each group selected, using input from
the official inspectors and industry fora.12 Each target group began with inspection and
assessment by the official inspectors so as to create a baseline.13 This was followed by provision
10
www.fsai.ie/industry/haccp/survey_HACCP_july2001.pdf
www.fsai.ie/industry/haccp/industry_haccp_strategy.asp
12 www.fsai.ie/publications/haccp/HACCP_CATERING.pdf
www.fsai.ie/publications/haccp/WHAT_IS_HACCP.pdf
www.fsai.ie/publications/haccp/HACCP_TERMINOLOGY.pdf
www.fsai.ie/publications/haccp/HACCP_EXTERNAL_CONSULTANT.pdf
11
13
http://www.fsai.ie/publications/haccp/HACCP_EXTERNAL_CONSULTANT.pdf
52
Annex 1
of advice from inspectors, distribution of relevant materials and awareness campaigns by both the
FSAI and trade associations. In each case, a deadline was set for completion of the target group.
A guidance note for HACCP inspectors was developed to provide advice on enforcement
measures to be taken.14 Upon completion of the process in a target group, full inspections are
carried out to determine improvement. Official action is encouraged for those SLDBs who have
shown no sign of commencing HACCP implementation.
The first target group hotels was completed in June 2004 and good progress has been made.
However, a small but significant group of hotels have not started to develop HACCP plans; they
will be the target of potential enforcement actions.
Although it is still early to determine the full effects of the Irish approach, it appears to be
working based on the measures of HACCP implementation in target groups before and after
application of the strategy. However, it is resource intensive for the official inspectors and
progress can only be made in one target group at a time. The strategy represents an approach
based on affirmative action by official inspectors backed by national support from the
government and trade associations. It leaves food businesses to develop their own systems
providing only guidance rather than generic HACCP systems. It is recognized that in the near
future, in order to tackle certain types of SLDB, a simplified HACCP-based approach may be
necessary and resources will have to be allocated for this purpose.
Japan
x
x
14
HACCP is not required by national food safety laws and regulations.

A voluntary HACCP and GHP approval system was introduced under the Food Sanitation
Law in 1995, applicable to milk and milk products, meat products, surimi-based products,
low acid canned food, and soft drink establishments. In spite of this, a huge outbreak
associated with a milk-based drink manufactured in a HACCP-approved establishment
occurred in 2000. Both government and industry still face major challenges to enhance the
importance of food safety among food safety managers in food manufacturing plants.
In 1998, the HACCP Support Law came into force: food industries interested in introducing
HACCP and a quality assurance control system based on the HACCP principles were offered
low interest rate loans and tax reductions in order to update facilities and equipment. Under
this law, industry organizations for each commodity develop standards and request approval
from both the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) and the Ministry of
Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW). Once the standards are approved, businesses
belonging to the organization and needing low interest rate loans to update facilities (e.g.
separating dirty and clean zones) and equipment (e.g. automatic temperature monitoring
equipment) can apply for approval of a HACCP-based plan by the industry organization to
access the loan and authorize the benefits of the reduced tax rate.
www.fsai.ie
53
The food sanitation inspectors of the national and district governments take a 3-day training
course and perform separate roles:
National: review of HACCP and GHP documents and on-site verification for approval
by the MHLW.
District: routine establishment inspections.
Seventeen district governments and large cities began a voluntary-based HACCP approval
system for certain food businesses, e.g.:
Tokyo Metropolitan Government (system more GHP based).
Hyogo District Government (HACCP and GHP-based systems for meat processing,
poultry slaughtering and processing, seafood processing, large-scale catering and lunch
box preparation establishments).
Wakayama, Tottori and Aichi districts (systems for large-scale catering, lunch box
preparation, hotel and inn restaurants, confectionery manufacturing, ready-to-eat meals).
In addition, other districts began promoting HACCP in small and medium-sized food
establishments.
With financial support from the MAFF, the Japan Food Hygiene Association (an industry
organization for promoting food safety among its members) has conducted HACCP training
courses for food industries.
Following the Escherichia coli O157:H7 outbreak in Sakai in 1996, the need to introduce and
implement the HACCP system in food businesses was recognized by both industry and
government. Since the introduction of a voluntary-based HACCP approval system under the
Food Sanitation Law, approval has been given by the MHLW to:
x
x
x
x
x
x
158 milk processing establishments;

179 milk product manufacturing establishments;
82 meat product manufacturing establishments;
24 surimi-based product manufacturing establishments;
36 low acid canned food manufacturing establishments; and
87 soft drink manufacturing establishments.
Under the HACCP Support Law, 20 industry organizations for different commodities (e.g.
frozen food, ready-to-eat food, lunch box, confectionery and bakery) apply MHLW/MAFFapproved standards. Moreover, 205 establishments have developed HACCP plans, obtained
approval from the industry organization, and received low interest rate loans from a MAFFrelated financial organization. In addition, food industry organizations have developed guidance
on HACCP, GHP and SSOP (Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures).
More than 200 food establishments have been approved by district government under the
HACCP approval system.
54
Annex 1
From April 2003 to March 2005, 4 166 people took the 1-day basic HACCP training courses, 580
people took 4-day advanced HACCP training courses, and 36 people took trainer courses
conducted by the Japan Food Hygiene Association.
x
Strong commitment from top level management is needed to introduce HACCP in both large
businesses and SLDBs.
Continuous and appropriate implementation of a HACCP plan is as critical as development
of the plan.
Development of a precise flow diagram, in particular identification of where and how raw or
intermediate materials are re-used, is very important to assess the probability of
contamination.
Provision of appropriate training for all employees involved in HACCP implementation,
making them understand the role and responsibility of each employee under the HACCP
plan, is a key factor for success.
Mexico
x
x
National policy for protection against health risks is based on risk analysis.
Two main organizations are in charge of food safety with complementary functions:
the Health Department (the competent authority for food safety); and
the Agriculture Department (the competent authority for animal and plant health).
A stepwise approach is adopted from voluntary to mandatory: first GHP, then GMP and
SSOP, followed by voluntary HACCP.
National regulations exist requiring mandatory GHP (since 1996), and there are mandatory
documentation requirements for the whole food industry (since 2000).
Mexico has a population of over 100 million. There are 1.8 million food premises food industry
establishments, food wholesalers and retailers, food services (fixed and street vendors) of
which 61 percent are one-person food premises and only 1.3 percent are facilities with more than
51 employees. Food industry employees on average receive a formal education of 7 to 8 years, i.e.
the vast majority have received only elementary education.
The Federal Commission for the Protection against Health Risk (COFEPRIS) was formed in
2002 by integrating all federal departments with regulatory responsibilities in the Department of
Health, i.e. those responsible for food and consumer products, drugs and medical devices,
environmental health, health services, organ transplants and blood transfusions, and labour
health. Risk analysis principles are applied for public health protection and a specific division has
been developed for risk assessment. Risk management actions include regulation, inspection and
55
compliance, as well as non-regulatory measures, such as education, training and self-inspection

agreements with the food industry.
The National Service of Agri-Food Health, Safety and Quality (SENASICA) depends on the
Secretariat of Agriculture, Animal and Fisheries. It was formed in 2001 to amalgamate the federal
departments of animal and plant health. SENASICA has a regulatory role to support food safety
as an important factor for the expansion of national and foreign markets for meat, poultry, honey
and fruit.
COFEPRIS and SENASICA coordinate all activities from farm to table with the involvement of
federal government departments (e.g. Economy and Environment), but further efforts are
required to develop a seamless food control system. SENASICA promotes GAP and GMP in the
production of fruits and produce by distributing guidelines and providing financial support for
food safety programmes implemented by private companies.
The national food safety policy has been applied consistently since 1992. However, HACCP is
mandatory only when demanded by export markets (GHP/HACCP are certified upon request of
the competent authority of the importing country). The Secretariat of Health is concentrating on
meeting mandatory GHP and documentation requirements in food industry and trade.
Until 1996, GHP was voluntary. Subsequently, it became mandatory for the food industry
through regulations developed through broad consultation with all stakeholders. HACCP is only
mandatory for the seafood industry (since 1997). In 1996, GMP regulations for several food
industries were developed. Between 1992 and 2002, more than 500 000 GHP guidelines and
generic HACCP guidelines for different industry and food service sectors were developed and
distributed. In 2000, mandatory documentation of cleaning, sanitation and pest programmes
came into effect, reinforcing the prerequisites for HACCP implementation.
A training programme for food inspectors and industry was launched in collaboration with the
National Autonomous University of Mexico, covering GHP, HACCP and HACCP auditing;
more than 400 people have been trained in the last 13 years. A training programme for food
inspectors began in 1996; by 2005 more than 2 000 officials had been trained in various subjects.
In 1993, a strategy of focusing on specific food industry groups was introduced. Target groups
were selected on the basis of a risk approach and resources were invested to improve food safety.
The approach was resource intensive, but while there were major improvements in salt iodization
and fluoridation, pasteurized milk, purified water and seafood, only minor food safety
improvements were seen in other food groups comprising larger numbers of SLDBs, such as
fresh cheese, public markets and restaurants.
The Mexican Official Standards of GHP for the food industry and food service sector have been
in effect for over 8 years and are due for review. COFEPRIS intends to include HACCP on a
voluntary basis, as a first step towards implementing HACCP in high-risk sectors (if all
stakeholders are in agreement).
56
Annex 1

x
x
GHP, GMP and HACCP implementation are part of a continuous learning process.
Mandatory GHP and SSOP for all food businesses has laid the foundations for
implementation of HACCP on a voluntary basis, leading in turn to mandatory HACCP in
selected high-risk industries once the system is mature and resources are available.
COFEPRIS is working towards third party GHP/HACCP auditing as a tool to support
voluntary implementation of food safety programmes for interested industries, including the
food service sector.
To improve the efficiency and effectiveness of food safety measures, it is important to raise
awareness through elementary education.
The Netherlands
The Netherlands has a population of 16 million. A total of 130 000 companies are active in the
production or distribution of food. Of these, 3 500 are considered larger industrial businesses; the
remainder are medium-sized and small businesses, and generally lack knowledge of and
experience in HACCP. Most of these businesses are not able to develop and implement a food
safety system by themselves.
In accordance with the EU directive 43/93, the basic obligations for food safety became law in
1996. While some companies immediately saw the advantages of food safety provisions, it was
clear that without due pressure from the government and consumer associations, implementation
would not succeed.
Historically, the Netherlands has a wide range of branch associations. Associations and boards
have legal status and fulfil a very important role between the government and food businesses.
Every food company in a specific branch is obliged by law to become a member of the relative
association. In return, companies are represented and supported by the branch association in
different ways. There is open communication between associations and government through
discussion groups, where all associations, consumer organizations and the Food and Consumer
Product Safety Authority (VWA) are represented and can discuss the introduction of legislation
concerning food.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF APPROACH AND OUTCOMES TO DATE
Hygiene guides:
x
Branch associations representing certain food sectors have developed branch-specific hygiene
guides concerning food safety based on HACCP. The guides:
provide assurance that food prepared in the sector is safe;
provide basic prerequisite hygiene advice and instructions related to food safety; and
use terminology that is understandable, taking into account the level of education and
cultural background of the users of the document.
57
x
x
The Minister of Public Health and consumer organizations received this initiative with
enthusiasm.
Guides are discussed in the aforementioned discussion groups. Following discussion and
agreement with the VWA, the hygiene guide receives approval from the Minister of Public
Health for a period of 4 years, after which, the hygiene guide needs to be re-evaluated.
Between 1997 and 1999, more than 25 hygiene guides received approval.
The legal articles are formulated so that the food business owner may choose how to
implement food safety measures and controls developing and implementing a personalized
food safety system or implementing an approved HACCP-based hygiene guide. Food
businesses not operating according to a food safety system or hygiene guide are considered to
be committing a legal offence.
In 2001, the first hygiene guides were evaluated. Microbiological verification criteria were
introduced and it became possible to verify different stages in the process by analysing inprocess samples against different microbiological criteria. Currently, there are ten hygiene
guides containing microbiological verification criteria suitable for SLDBs.
Enforcement:
x
Despite references to HACCP-based food safety systems in legislation and the availability of
hygiene guides, compliance with the regulations is still not assured. In 1998, the government
inspectorate began to enforce compliance with the procedures and working instructions
related to the food safety systems.
A phased approach of enforcement was chosen and the associations were consulted to
identify the priorities. This working method has several advantages:
Branch associations can communicate priorities to all members, who then start working
according to the hygiene guide.
Companies can implement food safety in stages and gradually become accustomed to
securing food safety in a systematic way.
Instructions for the inspector are limited to agreed and established priorities.
Registration of the inspection results gives an overview of the level of observance of the
procedures and working instructions.
Results:
x
Food safety has been controlled as described above for 7 or 8 years and most companies are
familiar with a hygiene guide.
Several priorities (targets related to CCPs) have been identified and are checked during every
inspection:
Receiving and storage of raw materials/goods
Temperature (storage/preparation)
Cleaning and disinfecting
Cross-contamination
Steps have been taken to define CCPs:
Instructions and procedures related to the priorities in the hygiene guide
58
Annex 1
Conformance procedures by the owner and personnel, implementing the right control
measures and sufficient corrective action if necessary
Recording of all measurements available concerning the CCP
After over 7 years working on the system of hygiene guides for SLDBs, it is possible to draw the
following conclusions:
x
Food business inspections have changed from full-scope inspections to target-related

inspections on critical points. Inspectors require specific training.
The inspection method is standardized: it is easier to monitor the national level of food safety
in the different branches and it is possible to prioritize.
A suitable hygiene guide exists for every type of SLDB. Nevertheless, some items require
attention in the near future.
The motivation of the owners and staff of SLDBs to act according to the hygiene guide can
be improved in some situations, for example, through simplification of the hygiene guide.
There is scope for improvement of the education of SLDB staff in relation to the hygiene
guide.
New Zealand
x
x
Single integrated agency with responsibility for all food-related legislation.

Mandatory requirement for the application of GHP and HACCP in some sectors, particularly
for exports (e.g. animal products, seafood and dairy).
Intent to mandate HACCP-based programmes throughout the food industry.
The New Zealand Food Safety Authority (NZFSA) was established on 1 July 2002. The
Authority takes a new approach to food safety by bringing together the food safety functions of
the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and the Ministry of Health. One objective of the
NZFSA is to develop a seamless food regulatory regime across the entire food chain. Before
addressing current initiatives, there follows a brief description of HACCP policy prior to the
establishment of the NZFSA.
Meat, dairy and other food types used to be regulated differently, mainly in isolation from one
another, and different approaches towards HACCP implementation had been developed. At the
time of the establishment of the NZFSA, the meat and dairy sectors were heading towards full
mandatory HACCP for business within specified time frames; the domestic sector had the option
of voluntarily implementing HACCP-based programmes.
There were differences in the implementation of GHP and its association with HACCP:
59
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (responsible for the meat and dairy sectors) had
separated GHP and HACCP requirements.
The Ministry of Health had integrated GHP and HACCP, requiring that hazards for
prerequisite programmes were identified for the following reasons:
Prerequisite programmes used in the domestic sector were out of date and prescribed.
The hazards controlled by the prerequisite programmes needed to be reconsidered to
determine if they were adequate and appropriate for the process.
Experience indicated that these programmes became secondary to the HACCP
component and were often forgotten.
The Animal Products group within the NZFSA reports success with the use of generic HACCP
guides, plans and templates. The success has been aided by good working relationships with food
sector associations, some of which include SLDBs. This means that the group can provide input
for HACCP-based approaches and guidance materials/templates. A good example of an outcome
of this collaborative approach is the "Risk Management Programme Template for Eggs".15
Another successful initiative from the Animal Products group is an active programme of revising
generic HACCP work to reflect current HACCP thinking and of improving guidance and
template material based on food business and external verifier feedback.
The Domestic and Imported Foods group within the NZFSA has continued with the voluntary
implementation of HACCP-based programmes. The team has noted four particular areas of
success:
x
A resource folder including HACCP guidance, frequently asked questions and legislative
requirements has been very well utilized by food businesses.16
Template-based solutions seem to be readily implemented by all types of food business; the
NZFSA template on staff sickness is an example of this.17
Establishing processes for open dialogue between the NZFSA, local regulators, external
verifiers and food businesses has been essential to ensure improvements in the HACCPbased programme approval process (including ongoing verification and on-site programme
review).
The voluntary shift towards HACCP-based programmes has worked particularly well for
"chain type" food businesses. This is where the head office of a food business chain (e.g. fast
food, service station or supermarket) develops one HACCP-based programme for all sites.
The programme includes training on how to implement (including site-specific hazard
identification) and comply with the programme on an ongoing basis, as well as extensive food
safety training for each food handler. The level of success is greater when the head office is
particularly active in following up with outlets after their external audits.
15
http://www.nzfsa.govt.nz/animalproducts/subject/eggs/index.htm
http://www.nzfsa.govt.nz/processed-food-retail-sale/fsp/index.htm
17 http://www.nzfsa.govt.nz/processed-food-retail-sale/templates/index.htm
16
60
Annex 1
The success of these "general agreements" or generic templates for "like" businesses has led to
the view that successful implementation of HACCP-based programmes for SLDBs is dependent
on the development of such tools.
The voluntary status of HACCP implementation within the domestic sector and harmonization
of HACCP requirements between the food sectors is being developed under the New Zealand
Food Safety Authorities Domestic Food Review.18
New Zealand proposes that risk-based management plans, known as "food control plans", will
include "good operating practices" and HACCP. Good operating practices are intended to
encompass relevant food safety and suitability sections of good agricultural, good manufacturing
or good hygienic practices. Good operating practices should have the following characteristics:
x
x
x
x
x
x
Able to control or assist in controlling a food safety hazard or food suitability issue, covering
matters such as training.
Science-based where possible.
Relevant to the food type and food process.
Documented under the following headings:
Purpose
Scope
Authorities and responsibilities
Materials and equipment
Actual procedure (including monitoring, corrective action and internal verification)
Recording and reporting
Developed and documented prior to applying the HACCP principles.
Reviewed in conjunction with applying HACCP principles.
Food control plans are intended to cover the following components to the level appropriate for
the business:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Responsibilities and authorities (administrative details such as name and address)

Scope (product and process description)
Relevant regulatory requirements
Good operating practices (see above)
Documentation and record keeping
Application of HACCP principles (including hazard identification and analysis, critical
control points and critical limit determination, critical control point monitoring and
corrective actions when needed, and internal verification)
Training
External verification and verifier competencies and rights
The key to the successful application of food control plans is the simplicity of the plans and the
role of the regulator.
18
http://www.nzfsa.govt.nz/policy-law/projects/domestic-food-review/index.htm
61
For successful implementation of the food control plans, the NZFSA, as the regulator in this
area, is expecting to provide templates and other guidelines for food control plans to cover the
needs of some 30 000 to 40 000 businesses. The balance (of food businesses) either already has
plans in place or, because of size or the use of proprietary processes for example, develops
individual plans covering their specific businesses.
Food control plan templates are generally presented as part of, or supported by, codes of practice
for particular food sectors, with GHP and HACCP elements and any regulatory requirements
clearly identified. Food control plan templates might already be available within a food sector or
may well exist in a complementary form in another country (which might be adapted for New
Zealand businesses).
The type of tool produced varies depending on the level of understanding of a particular food
sector. HACCP principles are applied in developing the template, and small to medium-sized
business operators do not need to repeat this step.
New Zealand has not commenced broad application of the above approach. Discussion papers
proposing that food control plans be the tool of choice for food safety management in the future
were released publicly. Depending on submissions, developments are expected to continue.
South Africa
x
National legislation creating an enabling framework to make HACCP mandatory in different

sectors of the food industry.
An FAO TCP Project conducted to determine, amongst others, the applicability of HACCP
principles in street-food vending (a type of SLDB).
Hygiene regulations applicable in all sectors of the food industry developed as a means of
harmonizing national hygiene standards.
Strong collaboration between all food control authorities, the industry and the academic
sector, through various working groups and committees.
In South Africa, food control is mainly the responsibility of the agricultural and health sectors
and of the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS).
The agriculture sector is responsible for:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
ensuring good agricultural practices;

the control of abattoirs;
development and enforcement of food quality standards;
certain labelling standards;
certain imports and exports;
registration of genetically modified organisms (GMOs);
registration of agricultural remedies; and
the national SPS enquiry point.
62
Annex 1
In addition, the Department of Agriculture authorized the Perishable Products Export Control
Board to conduct physical inspections of perishable products (e.g. fresh fruits and vegetables) for
export from South Africa.
The health sector is responsible for:
x
x
x
x
x
development of food safety and nutrition standards;

food hygiene issues (excluding abattoirs);
certain aspects of food labelling;
the quality of certain products; and
certain import activities.
The health sector operates on three levels national, provincial and local:
x
National Department of Health, through the Directorate: Food Control, is responsible for:
coordinating food control activities within the country;
developing policy and legislation;
supporting provinces and local authorities; and
the National Codex Contact Point.
Provincial Departments of Health (of which there are nine), through the Environmental
Health service, are responsible for:
coordinating, amongst others, food control activities within the province;
developing provincial norms and standards;
supporting and monitoring local authorities; and
rendering specialist services such as port health services on behalf of the national
department.
Local authorities, through the Environmental Health service, are responsible for:
enforcing legislation;
health promotion activities;
investigating complaints;
identifying and controlling health hazards; and
compliance monitoring and intersectoral collaboration.
The regulatory division of the SABS administers compulsory specifications (technical regulations)
on behalf of the Minister of Trade and Industry for:
x
x
canned and frozen fishery products; and

canned meat products.
The minimum requirements of these specifications are based on GMP and GHP and also contain
minimum consumer safety, compositional, quality and labelling requirements. The SABS
inspection system is based on the surveillance and conformity assessment of factories, fishing
vessels, processes and products. These specifications are also applicable to imported products.
The SABS is also the competent authority for the certification of fish and fishery products for
export.
Following several assessments of the South African food control system, it was found that the
system was inefficient due to the fact that:
63
x
x
x
x
x
there was no single or coordinated voice or body regarding food control issues;
multiple jurisdictions, overlapping and outdated legislation were hampering effective
regulation of food in South Africa;
there was uncoordinated enforcement of the legislation;
there was no national monitoring programme and no national database; and
all these issues resulted in an ineffective and inefficient utilization of human and other
resources.
Several models have been proposed for the new food control system, for example:
x
Multi-agency system
Food control responsibilities are shared between the departments of Health, Agriculture, and
Trade and Industry. This system is very similar to the current system of food control in South
Africa. It has the disadvantage of creating a fragmented system lacking coordination between
the different agencies in food policy, monitoring and food control. There is also
fragmentation between national, provincial and local authorities, which results in consumers
not receiving the same level of protection throughout South Africa.
Single agency system

There is consolidation of responsibility for food control in a single agency with very clear
terms of reference. This system allows for a rapid response to food safety problems and for
more effective use of resources, including the harmonization of food standards and uniform
application of norms and standards. This option is said to have many advantages, but
unfortunately does not fall in line with current South African Constitutional arrangements,
where some aspects of food control are a provincial competency.
Integrated system
Allows for the separation of policy from operational activities, thus separating risk assessment
from risk management functions as it demarcates the role of the authority from that of the
inspection agency. Such a system has the advantage of addressing the entire food chain.
Before any model can be considered, numerous factors require consideration:

x
x
x
x
x
National constitutional requirements, taking account of national, provincial and local

authority structures.
Current strategic plans of national government departments.
Food control activities located in other agencies.
South Africas obligations to WTO SPS/TBT (technical barriers to trade) agreements and
other international trade agreements.
Public health protection for all South Africans.
In addition, the scope of the food control system must be closely related to the cultural,
economic and political conditions of South Africa, covering all agricultural food produced,
processed and sold, as well as imported food.
The Department of Agriculture has undergone restructuring with the creation of the South
African Agricultural Food and Quarantine Inspection Services and of several new Directorates:
x
x
x
Animal Health
Plant Health
Food Safety and Quality Assurance
64
Annex 1
These changes are the first step towards the establishment of a single integrated food control
system in order to address the problems of fragmentation, lack of coordination and duplication
of efforts. The subsequent steps are as follows:
x
x
x
x
x
x
Obtain approval of the system at top level.

Appoint a taskforce to examine the different options and choose the most effective model
for the South African situation.
Develop/approve a policy framework.
Develop/approve a comprehensive policy regarding structure, personnel, resources etc.
Publish a relevant bill and promulgate the relevant act.
Draw up and implement the new regulations.
The creation of a new food control system, even when deemed necessary and urgent, is clearly
not a simple operation. Indeed, the need for a new food control system in South Africa was
identified 10 years ago and, although officials at all levels of national and provincial food control
agencies, industry representatives, accredited inspection bodies and private inspection groups all
agree that the creation of a National Food Control Authority is necessary, the stakeholders are
still a long way from a decision regarding which food control system model to follow and how to
implement it.
Thailand
x
x
x
x
National policy for consumer protection and HACCP compliance.

National survey on the readiness for HACCP implementation in food businesses before
setting the time frame requiring HACCP in national legislation.
Single body organizing the official inspection process.
Well-trained and highly motivated human resources (consultants, official inspectors and third
party auditors).
Coordination among the academic sector, industry and trade associations (food safety
courses, research, training).
Thailand has a large number of food factories and a food export policy, resulting in an
overwhelming workload for the Thai Food and Drug Administration (Thai FDA, Ministry of
Public Health) the principal regulatory organization responsible for the nations food safety
system. Consequently, in October 2002, the Thai Government set up the National Bureau of
Agricultural Commodity and Food Standards (ACFS) under the Ministry of Agriculture and
Cooperatives to develop standards and oversee the food safety of agricultural commodities and
food products for export. ACFS also acts as a national accreditation body (only for food and
agricultural products) and accredits the inspection system of the Departments of Fisheries,
Agriculture and Livestock Development (under the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives)
which control food and agricultural products produced for export.
Through ACFS, the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives aims to harmonize the
certification/inspection system and gain international recognition. ACFS works to improve the
65
compliance of food export establishments with importing countries legislation, which requires a
food safety management system based on the HACCP principles. A farm-to-table approach was
introduced recently, with the implementation of good agricultural practices (GAP) at farm level
and GMP and HACCP for food establishments.
The Department of Health (under the Ministry of Public Health) is responsible for food safety in
the food service sector (restaurants, hotels, canteens, supermarkets, fresh markets, food shops
and street vending). Thailand has a huge number of food businesses in this sector, most of which
are SLDBs.
To summarize, the main responsibilities are as follows:
x
x
x
ACFS oversees the safety of food products for export.

Thai FDA is in charge of safety of food products for domestic consumption.
Department of Health is in charge of the food service sector.
Initiatives to support HACCP implementation in Thailand have been ongoing for some time. For
example, the National Food Institute (NFI) was established under the Ministry of Industry in
1996 to facilitate HACCP implementation. More recently, NFI has become a certifying
representative for the Campden and Chorleywood Food Research Association (United Kingdom)
and the European Food Safety Inspection Service (EFSIS) and, as a result, is no longer a neutral
organization for HACCP development in Thailand. Therefore, a national centre for food safety
information and HACCP implementation (including HACCP harmonization) is still needed to
effectively implement HACCP in all food sectors.
Pressure from importing countries is the major factor currently dictating HACCP
implementation. Thai consumers must therefore be educated so that pressure is applied to
implement HACCP domestically. On 24 July 2001, Thai FDA issued GMP regulations (basic
hygiene regulations that need to be implemented prior to a HACCP system); they present
numerous obstacles for small food businesses however. Despite assistance from the government
(e.g. loans with low interest rate and free consultations), GMP implementation is still not fully
implemented across the country. While Thai FDA is attempting to overcome the obstacles and
fully implement GMP regulation for all food sectors, HACCP remains voluntary and lacks a
targeted time frame for implementation.
For effective HACCP implementation, a sufficient number of qualified consultants, auditors and
inspectors require training. Moreover, training of personnel in the food businesses to create food
safety awareness is also necessary and time-consuming. HACCP training courses are organized by
NFI, universities and food associations. These courses focus on the HACCP documentation
system; there are very few courses that focus on food hazard analysis. For Thailand as well as
the other developing countries more systematic training methods need to be considered.
For the food service sector (under the control of the Department of Health), there is no clear
direction for HACCP implementation, since application of Codex HACCP to this sector seems
very difficult. Since 2002, the Department of Health has encouraged food businesses to join the
"Clean Food Good Taste" project. Food businesses which respect the basic GHP will receive the
66
Annex 1
"Clean Food Good Taste" mark. A number of food businesses, including fresh markets, have
joined this voluntary project. The HACCP-based system needs to be developed for this sector.
Implementation of GMP or GHP prior to HACCP implementation is proving effective, given

that GMP/GHP is the foundation for HACCP implementation and does not require much
knowledge of food hazard analysis a concept which is difficult to understand for SLDBs.
Development of a HACCP system is resource intensive and requires harmonization. The
appropriate HACCP-based system must be developed for the food business sector. It is not easy
to estimate the time required to implement HACCP and a national survey is necessary. The
lessons learned during HACCP implementation in the food export sectors and the future are
summarized as follows:
Lessons learned
Pressure to encourage HACCP implementation
is necessary.
The future
x
Development of HACCP system is varied,

depending on third party auditors/inspectors.
Training/education, experience and information

on food safety (e.g. food hazards and their
control) are not sufficient to effectively implement
the HACCP system.
National legislation for HACCP implementation should

be clearly stated in advance.
Policy-makers are needed to target HACCP
implementation through a risk-based prioritization
approach.
Consumer education is necessary to apply pressure for
HACCP implementation in food businesses producing
for domestic consumption.
Central organization is needed for harmonization of the
HACCP system.
Single body is needed to organize the official inspection
process and control/accredit both government and
private third party auditors, in order to reduce confusion
among food businesses during the development of the
HACCP system.
Systematic training for all stakeholders is needed (how
to create food safety awareness; hazard analysis for
specific food sectors; integration of risk analysis into
HACCP system).
Central organization is required for the development of
HACCP system.
United Kingdom
x
x
Large number of food premises (>540 000) of which over 60 percent are caterers.
Catering premises are diverse with high turnover of staff and businesses and low level of
literacy.
National legislation for licensing of butcher's shops has required them to have a HACCP
system since 2000.
67
x
x
National legislation since 2002 requires meat plant operators to introduce hygiene procedures
based on HACCP principles.
A food safety initiative with specialist cheese-makers was launched in January 2002 to
promote protocols based on HACCP.
EU regulation requiring the first five principles of HACCP has been part of United Kingdom
legislation since 1995.
A food hygiene campaign launched in 2002 has targeted food businesses with the aim of
reducing food poisoning.
Enforcement and education take place primarily at local authority level.
Many businesses in the manufacturing sector already operate HACCP-based food safety
procedures due to customer requirements.
The United Kingdom Food Standards Agency (FSA) was established in 2000 with the aim of
protecting consumers and improving food standards. Progress with the implementation of food
safety management procedures in food businesses based on HACCP principles is seen as a key
factor in working towards the FSAs target of reducing food-borne disease. The FSA recognizes
that, in order to achieve the public health objectives in forthcoming European Community
legislation, many businesses will require further guidance to explain how they might comply with
the new legislation by having in place a food safety management system based on the principles
of HACCP.
The FSA carried out a survey of local authorities in 2001. The results of this survey indicated that
the adoption of food safety management procedures based on HACCP principles was highest in
food manufacturing premises and lowest in catering premises. An estimate of the prevalence of
documented hazard analysis in retail and catering premises was made as part of surveillance
studies carried out by the Local Authority Co-ordinating Office on Regulatory Services and the
Health Protection Agency. The six studies carried out since 2001 in over 9 000 establishments in
England and Wales reveal a wide variation in uptake of documented hazard analysis, from
8 percent (take-aways) to 70 percent (retail premises). The average figure over all establishments
was 55 percent. In addition, recent surveys in Scotland and Northern Ireland indicated that the
corresponding figure for catering premises only in these countries is about 35 percent. The FSAs
strategy looks towards eventual full compliance with the requirements for food safety
management based on HACCP principles in the forthcoming legislation.
The FSA's strategy is to produce a "tool kit" of guidance materials and supporting materials on
different approaches to HACCP, recognizing the diversity of the industry and that there can be
no "one size fits all" solution.
The FSA has decided to address the need for guidance materials in the catering sector first, given
the high proportion of catering premises (about 60 percent), and because it is in this sector that
most progress needs to be made. It is also a particularly difficult sector for which to produce
guidance, since it cannot be treated as a manufacturing, production line operation. The nature
and size of catering businesses is so diverse that it is highly improbable that any single approach
will satisfy the requirements of the whole catering sector.
68
Annex 1
The FSAs "tool kit" of approaches provides businesses with the option to choose a route to
compliance that best meets their business needs and preferred management style. Businesses are
also free to use other models that facilitate compliance.
The FSA is developing a food safety management tool, "Safer Food, Better Business" (SFBB),
based on its Food Hygiene Campaign, in conjunction with enforcers, caterers, HACCP experts
and food scientists and trade associations. SFBB is aimed at small and medium-sized catering
businesses (<10 employees), which account for almost 90 percent of all catering businesses in the
United Kingdom, and targets the owner or manager of the business. FSA Scotland and Northern
Ireland also have each produced guidance material.
Guidance materials are being developed in partnership with all relevant stakeholders. These
include local authorities, industry representatives, trade associations and businesses. The FSA has
recognized the need to build from the current level of knowledge in the business, particularly at
the micro-business level, in achieving the implementation of a food safety management system.
The FSA has also recognized the diversity found within the catering sector and has undertaken a
number of projects to ensure that guidance materials are fully relevant to these sectors. A number
of projects to test the feasibility of guidance and methods of delivery are currently underway. The
results of this work will be used for the further development of guidance materials, the
constituent parts of the agencys "tool kit" and the FSA strategy on implementation from 2005.
The United Kingdom approach using the flexibility of the Codex General Principles of Food
Hygiene to control a food operation and in accordance with the EU Regulations to provide small
catering businesses with a "tool kit" of routes to compliance is supported by a graduated and
educative approach to enforcement. The success of the approach will be determined by trial
results, which will be reflected in future guidance and business support. It is clear that the
business sector (in this case, caterers) needs to be fully involved in the production of guidance
materials and that materials must be thoroughly tested before wide-scale use. It is recognized that
much of the further development of HACCP guidance is likely to be industry-led, and that full
compliance may take several years. Consistent support at national and regional level will be
provided through local authorities and trade associations, as well as by government.
69
ANNEX 2
The seven principles of the HACCP System and specific
strategic activities in SLDBs
Annex 1 outlines various activities which may be implemented singly or in a combined way as
part of the national policy for the application of HACCP in SLDBs. To reinforce where specific
tools may be and have been used, information is presented below outlining methods to support
SLDBs in complying with specific HACCP principles.
METHODS ASSOCIATED WITH ACHIEVING THE SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF HACCP

PRINCIPLE 1 CONDUCT A HAZARD ANALYSIS
x
Merging both the general (i.e. prerequisites) and specific (i.e. HACCP) hazards in a way that
businesses can understand and consequently control.
Grouping similar hazards and controls to facilitate the operation of HACCP by the business.
Examples include the completion of maintenance requirements during cleaning and using the
scope statement (which outlines the different processes undertaken by a food business) as the
basis of a training requirements list.
Identifying the hazard at a sufficient level of detail to allow the analysis to lead to
identification of relevant and appropriate control measures19. Agents may be identified at
various levels of detail:
Detail
Broad category
Very specific details
e.g. Biological hazards

Biological agents
Bacteria, fungi, viruses, parasites
Pathogens
Pathogens (able to colonize the human gut)
Salmonella
Salmonella Typhimurium phage type 104
For example, in the preparation of meat pies which are consumed hot immediately after
cooking, it is sufficient to identify pathogens as a likely hazard in raw meat ingredients. One
could identify specific pathogens, such as Salmonella, Campylobacter, Clostridium and
Yersinia, and parasites, such as Toxoplasmosis Gondii, but this would not change the control
outcome. All vegetative pathogens and parasites are effectively destroyed by the heat
treatment regimes during cooking; any spore formers (e.g. clostridia species), do not have
time to regenerate. However, in the preparation of meat pies which are subject to storage and
distribution, more detailed analysis is required. Clostridia perfringens and Bacillus cereus should
19
Source: New Zealand Ministry of Health, 2002. Guidance about the design, implementation and operation of Food Safety
Programmes and the content of Codes of Practice, not published.
71
be identified, as these spore formers may flourish if the cooling rate and product storage
temperature are not controlled. In the preparation of cooked rice, a more detailed approach is
required. Bacillus cereus should be identified as a likely hazard in the ingredient rice and,
because it is a spore former, it can survive the cooking process. Control needs to be applied
to the cooling of the cooked rice and holding until final food preparation. The hazard needs
to be identified at this more detailed level and the spore forming nature highlighted.
Rewording hazards as "problems" and controls as "steps to manage the problems" (or similar
expressions) can reduce confusion for a food business.
PRINCIPLE 2 DETERMINE THE CRITICAL CONTROL POINTS (CCPS):

x
Developing general guidance material to be used in association with the decision tree is
helpful. The information needs to outline how to deal with prerequisite controls, hurdle
technology and define acceptable and unacceptable limits. An example of such guidance
material may be found on the New Zealand Food Safety Authority Web site:
http://www.nzfsa.govt.nz/processed-food-retail-sale/fsp/faq/index.htm#P35_1457.
Defining recommended critical control points is a possible approach for simpler food
processors, for example in the food service industry. Care needs to be taken with this
approach to ensure that the critical control points do not become prescribed. Food
businesses should always have the option of using an alternative control system that has been
assessed for equivalence.
PRINCIPLE 3 ESTABLISH CRITICAL LIMIT(S):

x
Validation is usually completed by scientific trials or reference to scientific literature. This is

often seen as difficult for SLDBs, who do not have easy access to such information or the
ability to understand it. It is common for validation to be completed by reference to dated
and prescriptive legislation. The regulator's role is to collate commonly used critical limits and
validate them through scientific literature. Limits "generally regarded as safe" (sometimes
known as "GRAS") and including those associated with good hygienic practices, should also
be included in this resource. By making these collations available to businesses, identification
of adequate critical limits is aided.
PRINCIPLE 4 ESTABLISH A SYSTEM TO

x
MONITOR CONTROL OF THE CCP:
Utilizing methods that reduce the quantity of record keeping (this may be in the form of a
"diary" or simplified records based on "management by exception").
The process of taking temperature measurements has been identified as a barrier to the
implementation of HACCP. Visual monitoring to determine when the critical limit has been
achieved is possible in two cases:
Where there is a large buffer between the critical limit and final temperature reached
through the traditional method of cooking (e.g. frying of bacon to make crispy bacon
rashers).
72
Annex 2
The correlation between the visual colour and texture change in the food and the critical
limits achieved at this point is validated. Some validation work on this area has been
completed and more continues. Unless there is validation to show the correlation in a
food type, use of visual checks to determine when critical limits are achieved is not
recommended.
Simple instructions on how to lessen the burden of monitoring should also be made available.
This information should include the fact that where historical records covering the
monitoring are available and consistency is observed, the amount of monitoring may be
reduced.
PRINCIPLE 5 ESTABLISH THE CORRECTIVE ACTION TO BE TAKEN WHEN MONITORING

INDICATES THAT A PARTICULAR CCP IS NOT UNDER CONTROL:
No alternative strategies have been identified.
PRINCIPLE 6 ESTABLISH PROCEDURES FOR VERIFICATION TO CONFIRM THAT THE HACCP

SYSTEM IS WORKING EFFECTIVELY:
Internal verification solutions for businesses with a small number of staff include the following:
x
The food business's external verifier (auditor) checks records of CCP monitoring fortnightly
(i.e. fax through records to the verifier). There is a potential cost issue associated with this
option. A possible method to prevent this cost is to use people wanting to become auditors
to verify this information. This would provide good training for these potential auditors and
an internal verification within the food business.
The food business may approach a family member or associate to undertake the internal audit
function. Food safety training for this person is essential to ensure a useful verification.
Initiating a "swap" programme between similar businesses: owners from similar businesses
undertake the internal audit function of another business and vice versa.
Allowing the food business to undertake its own internal verification and request that the
external verifier (auditor) reviews the effectiveness of the internal verification system. If
found inappropriate, the business would have to revert to another option outlined above.
Refocusing enforcement and audit requirements onto businesses' understanding and control
of processes (this might be typified as "self-audit" monitoring).
The potential cost of external verification is another clear barrier to HACCP implementation.
Other than the regulator funding or completing this task, options to resolve this issue are
limited. In the United Kingdom's "Safer Food Better Business" system, the verification of the
system is done routinely by self-audit i.e. activity is undertaken by the manger responsible
and intermittently by official enforcement officers.
73
PRINCIPLE 7 ESTABLISH DOCUMENTATION CONCERNING ALL PROCEDURES AND RECORDS

APPROPRIATE TO THESE PRINCIPLES AND THEIR APPLICATION:
x
The diary option is one way of helping to ensure that records are kept with minimal effort.
This system provides a place for all records taken for each working day.
Checklists and pens positioned close to the area where monitoring is being undertaken can
act as both a time saver and a reminder to the food worker.
An example of a system using the various methods outlined above is the "Safer Food Better
Business" system developed by the UK Food Standards Agency (see Annex 1). The system
merges both the general (i.e. prerequisites) and specific (i.e. HACCP) hazards, but their criticality
is indicated by the level and frequency of monitoring required. The record-keeping element of the
system is focused on a diary that is signed on a daily basis by the person responsible for food
safety. Focus is on record keeping by exception, i.e. making a written record only when things go
wrong and corrective action is undertaken. The verification of the system is done routinely by
self-audit, i.e. activity is undertaken by the manager responsible and intermittently by official
enforcement officers.
74
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FAO and WHO support the continual development of national policies to improve food safety and
quality with the overall objective of protecting consumers health and furthering economic development.
This document has been developed by FAO and WHO following a request from the Thirty-fifth Session
of the Codex Committee on Food Hygiene (CCFH) for guidance on HACCP in small and/or
less-developed businesses (SLDBs), to address obstacles, identified by member countries, facing the
small food business sector. This document will assist national authorities in the development of national
policy, strategies and action plans aimed at improving food safety and trade through the application of
HACCP in SLDBs. It provides a historical background and a summary of the work of the Codex
Alimentarius Commission on HACCP. It identifies the challenges facing small food businesses in the
application of HACCP, outlines the steps for the development of a HACCP strategy and describes a
number of strategic activities based on the collective experience of experts. Wherever possible,
examples of national approaches are provided. The guidance document is for use by governments in
developing national policy aimed at the application of HACCP in SLDBs, and by professionals advising
on national policy development (e.g. government officials, food industry associations, consultants,
auditors, trainers/education specialists). It promotes full interaction between governments
and the small business sector.
ISBN 978-92-5-105596-0
ISSN 0254-4725
789251 055960
TC/M/A0799E/1/11.06/1700
ISBN 978-92-4-159503-2

(World Health Organization) FAO WHO Guidance To Go HACCP

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(World Health Organization) FAO WHO Guidance To Go HACCP

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ISSN 0254-4725

Food and Agriculture

Participants in the electronic discussion

The HACCP system

The food safety burden

THE SMALL BUSINESS SECTOR AND CHALLENGES FACED WORLDWIDE

Challenges within the food business

Infrastructure and facilities

Awareness and expertise

Challenges due to inadequate supporting environment

DEVELOPMENT OF A HACCP STRATEGY FOR SLDBS WITHIN A NATIONAL FOOD

Government infrastructure and commitment

Criteria for measuring success of strategy

How to measure HACCP implementation

STRATEGIC ACTIVITIES TO FACILITATE HACCP IMPLEMENTATION IN SLDBS

Provision of financial support

Codes and standards documents

OVERVIEW OF NATIONAL APPROACHES TO FACILITATE HACCP

THE SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF HACCP AND SPECIFIC

Conduct a hazard analysis

Logical sequence for the application of HACCP

PARTICIPANTS IN THE ELECTRONIC DISCUSSION

Stella Maris Alzamora, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina

PARTICIPANTS IN THE EXPERT MEETING1

Wayne Anderson, Food Safety Authority of Ireland, Dublin, Ireland

Arvind Patil, Export Inspection Agency, Chennai, India

AUTHORS OF CASE STUDY SUMMARIES

Brazil: Vladmir Favalli, National Health Surveillance Agency, Brasilia

JOINT FAO/WHO SECRETARIAT

Ezzeddine Boutrif, Chief, Food Quality and Standards Service, FAO

British Retail Consortium

Codex Committee on Food Hygiene

Critical Control Point

European Food Safety Inspection Service

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Good Agricultural Practice

Gross Domestic Product

Good Hygienic Practice

Good Laboratory Practice

Genetically modified organism

Good Manufacturing Practice

Generally Recognized As Safe

Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (System)

Organization of American States

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development

South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions

Small and/or Less-Developed Business

Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures

Safe Quality Food

Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures

Agreement on the Technical Barriers to Trade

United States Department of Agriculture

World Health Organization

World Trade Organization

Good hygienic practices:

All practices regarding the conditions and measures necessary to

Codex HACCP system:

A system which identifies, evaluates and controls hazards which are