In FSIS-inspected facilities, what is the primary role of HACCP?

• A. To identify hazards and implement controls at critical points to ensure food safety
• B. To manage employee training schedules
• C. To conduct financial audits
• D. To oversee packaging design

Answer: (A)

HACCP in FSIS-inspected facilities is a preventive system that focuses on identifying potential hazards—biological, chemical, and physical—within the production steps and establishing controls at critical points where those hazards can be prevented, eliminated, or reduced to safe levels. This means defining critical control points, setting critical limits, monitoring performance, taking corrective actions when limits are not met, and performing verification and recordkeeping to ensure ongoing safety. This approach builds safety into the process rather than relying on end-product testing alone. Activities like scheduling employee training, conducting financial audits, or designing packaging fall outside HACCP’s role.