Changes to food safety are largely driven by US legislation, with most countries now converging towards the Food & Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) standards. FSMA has shifted the focus from responding to foodborne illness to preventing it. This is driving the adoption of track-and-trace technologies, with imports a focus in the FDA’s plans.
From HACCP to HARPC
Under the FSMA, the longstanding Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) principles have been superseded by Hazard Analysis and Risk-Based Preventive Controls (HARPC). The biggest difference is that HARPC standards extend beyond Critical Control Points. Food processors must document all potential product risks, including planning for potential terrorist acts, intentional adulteration and food fraud.