05/07/2022
Are you engaged in applying a HACCP-based system at your workplace, particularly a Food Control Plan? Here are tips that can help Food Control Plan Operators, which is a HACCP-based food safety management system mandatory for certain food businesses in New Zealand i.e. food service, catering, and many others... most of these tips will be applicable to any HACCP-based system really!
How does food control plan compliance help your business?
- It is a legal requirement for certain types of businesses e.g. restaurants, and cafes. This means you have to effectively implement it to satisfy your local council verifier and keep the door open!
- It helps you produce safe and suitable food protecting consumers and the brand
- Workplaces that use an FCP have less chance of getting food poisoning complaints and product recalls, which can seriously damage your business reputation and bottom line
- It maintains consistency as your team members follow documented procedures
- Effective implementation of a control plan should save you money! Less waste, reduced compliance cost, and efficient operations.
There are a few key considerations you need to take into account when implementing your Food Safety Plan:
1. As an owner or operator you should prioritize food safety and demonstrate your commitment to it.
Put it this way, if you cut one corner your team will cut 10.
2. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the requirements of the food rules detailed in the Food Act 2014 and the Food Regulations 2015.
Usually what you need to know is clearly stated in the Template plan itself.
3. Use the template food control plan as a guide, but tailor it to your specific business needs. Keep the sections that apply to your operations and move the ones that do not to the back of the folder. Of course, using a cloud-based/digital plan is a strong option you can consider.
There are some great digital options out there that come with some advanced features to simplify food safety compliance. You can have your plan, documents, and records on your smartphone, tablets, and computer and can access them online meeting the requirements of New Zealand food safety standards.
4. Make sure you have adequate staff training on food safety procedures. Templates and food safety systems are important but it is people who produce safe food! Make sure you provide them with introductory food hygiene training and clearly communicate your expectations around prioritising food safety. This is what will help your brand grow in the long term really.
5. Pay attention to the common problematic areas highlighted in the next section below
To read the full details and learn about 5 of the most common nonconformances in identified in verifications, please read the full blog post!
https://www.foodsurety.com/blog/food-control-plan
As usual, Keen to hear your thoughts.
This article explains what a Template Food Control Plan (tFCP) is, why should you effectively implement it, and 5 tips to help you protect consumers, your business, and your brand.
