HACCP: Principle 6 - Establish Verification Procedures

Verification is defined as those activities, other than monitoring, that determine the validity of the HACCP plan and that the system is operating according to the plan. One aspect of verification is evaluating whether the facility's HACCP system is functioning according to the HACCP plan. An effective HACCP system requires little end product testing, since sufficient validated safeguards are built in early in the process. Therefore, rather than relying on end product testing, firms should rely on frequent reviews of their HACCP plan, verification that the plan is being correctly followed, and review of CCP monitoring and corrective action records. Another important aspect of verification is the initial validation of the HACCP plan to determine that the plan is scientifically and technically sound, that all hazards have been identified and that if the HACCP plan is properly implemented these hazards will be effectively controlled. Information needed for validation of the HACCP plan often include 1) expert advise and scientific studies and 2) in-plant observations, measurements, and evaluations. In addition, a periodic comprehensive verification of the HACCP system should be conducted by an unbiased independent authority. Verification activities are carried out by individuals within a company, third party experts, and regulatory agencies. It's important that the individuals doing verification have appropriate technical expertise to perform this function.

Other Documents in the Series

Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP)
HACCP: Principle 1 - Conduct a Hazard Analysis
HACCP: Principle 2 - Determine Critical Control Points (CCPs)
HACCP: Principle 3 - Establish Critical Limits
HACCP: Principle 4 - Establish Monitoring Procedures
HACCP: Principle 5 - Establish Corrective Actions
HACCP: Principle 6 - Establish Verification Procedures - Current Document
HACCP: Principle 7 - Establish Record Keeping and Documentation Procedures

For more information about the content of this document, contact Daryl Loback or Food Safety Division.
This information published to the web on June 18, 2002.
Last Reviewed/Revised on July 30, 2008.