HACCP Certification
What is HACCP Certification?
HACCP stands for Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point. HACCP is a system that identifies critical points in the production chain at which controls can be applied to prevent or eliminate contamination by pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, parasites and other microorganisms. HACCP also attempts to prevent problems with pesticides, food allergens, decomposition and undesirable flavors or odors.
What is HACCP Certification?
HACCP certification provides proof that your company’s food safety management system is independently audited and conforms to HACCP standards. HACCP certification allows you to provide your consumers with the highest level of food safety and product quality. HACCP certification demonstrates a commitment to excellence, product safety and procedures to continually improve food quality. HACCP certification is to HACCP as Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval is to household products.
Which Organizations Can Apply for HACCP Certification?
Some examples of organizations that can apply for HACCP certification include:
- Farms and ranches that produce fruits, vegetables, and meat products
- Food processing plants that manufacture food products such as canned goods, snacks, and beverages
- Packaging and labeling facilities that handle food products
- Food service establishments such as restaurants, cafes, and catering companies
Retailers such as supermarkets and grocery stores that sell food products.
How to Get Started with HACCP Certification
HACCP certification begins with assessment of your company’s food safety management system. HACCP assessment is a process that independent HACCP experts use to determine whether HACCP requirements have been successfully implemented within your company. HACCP certification ends with regular audits of HACCP compliance and HACCP plan changes after HACCP plan reviews, which demonstrate adherence to HACCP principles and continuous improvement. HACCP certification must be renewed every three years to maintain HACCP compliance and HACCP plan reviews may need to be performed every year following HACCP certification.
What HACCP Standards must be met for HACCP Certification?
HACCP standards provide guidance and procedures for establishing a HACCP system within an organization. HACCP standards generally include the following:
- System Management
- Critical Control Points (CCPs)
- Applicable HACCP-Specific CCPs
- Validating HACCP Implementation
- HACCP Documentation Requirements
- Verification of HACCP System Effectiveness
- HACCP Plan Changes
- HACCP Plan Reviews
What are the Benefits of HACCP Certification?
HACCP certification serves as a competitive edge for companies that export their products internationally, especially into countries requiring HACCP Certification.
- Reduces the risk of foodborne illness.
- HACCP controls are effective at reducing the risk of contamination by pathogens such as E coli and Listeria
- Increases productivity by elimination of waste and rework
- Protects against risk factors such as undeclared allergens.
- Increases consumer confidence and satisfaction
- Efficient workforce due to enhanced employee awareness and involvement
Achieve HACCP Certification with IAS
The following are steps required to obtain HACCP Certification through IAS:
Step 1: To acquire a quote for a HACCP audit, fill out the IAS application form.
Step 2: IAS auditors will meet with your HACCP team and schedule the audit.
Step 3: Complete the audit and, if necessary, take corrective action.
Step 4: IAS will then issue HACCP certification.
Once you successfully achieve HACCP certification, you can check the status of your certificate by visiting our HACCP certification search Page!
HACCP Certification Online
IAS now offers HACCP certification online through a process known as remote or virtual auditing. Remote auditing is a method of conducting audits that utilizes digital technology to allow auditors to perform assessments from a remote location. This allows organizations to obtain HACCP certification online without the need for on-site audits, reducing the time and cost involved in the HACCP certification process.
The process of obtaining HACCP certification online typically involves the following steps:
- Preparation: The organization prepares its food safety management system according to HACCP principles, and documents the system to demonstrate compliance with HACCP requirements.
- Pre-audit: IAS performs a pre-audit of the organization’s food safety management system to identify any areas of non-compliance or potential issues that may need to be addressed before the certification audit.
- Remote audit: IAS conducts a virtual audit of the organization’s food safety management system, using video conferencing tools and other digital technologies to review documents, interview personnel, and observe processes remotely.
- Certification decision: Based on the results of the remote audit, IAS makes a decision on whether to grant HACCP certification to the organization. If the organization meets all HACCP requirements, it will receive HACCP certification online.
Overall, HACCP certification online can provide a convenient and cost-effective way for organizations to demonstrate their commitment to food safety and quality management.
For more information about HACCP certification or HACCP certification online, please contact us today! Also Visit our HACCP certification frequently asked questions page!