4 replies to this topic

[Simon]

As a recent forum poll suggests our members have a lot of experience with HACCP, in addition I have picked up the odd snippet whereby members have suggested HACCP models could be improved.

General Principles of Food Hygiene - CODEX Alimentarius was last revised some ten years ago (2003). If we take this as the de facto source for HACCP how can the model be improved – if at all, with the challenges we face in 2013 and beyond?

Regards,
Simon

[cazyncymru]

To be honest Simon, i've all but abandoned Codex, and i use the CCFRA HACCP; A practical Guide Edition 4. I know it's based on Codex, but i find it more relevant to what we do. I've had no problems getting it past auditors. I do make reference to Codex in my HACCP documentation, but that's more like lip service really.

[George @ Safefood 360°]

IMO this is one of the more important questions for food safety management at the moment. As you say Simon, CODEX is now 10 years old. In the field of any professional or scientific persuit this would be considered too long. In general, the principles remain sound but the methodology leaves a lot to be desired.

Before we improve anything (including Codex HACCP) we first have to define clearly what is wrong with it. Many of us know that it simply does not help us meet the various and increasing demands of food safety auditors. We know that food safety failures occur; that everytime a new auditor looks at our HACCP studies new issues arise; often it is difficult to clearly identify CCP's; when we do what exactly does this mean...and so on.

Why is it when the principles are sound is it so unsatisfactory for those who have to apply them? Like any methodology that has been neglected for 10 years, the real world, emerging events and the collective experience of a large population of practitioners has been lost to the benefit of the system. What a shame!


Simon, your question is a big one and the answer has to be an even bigger Yes. We need to start with a clear account of where it is failing, followed by proposals from practitioners for improvement. From this an improved model and methodology can be developed. I intend to have available a contribution on this based on my own ideas soon.

George

[syju28380]

http://www.campdenbr...ri/pubs_cat.pdf

[Charles.C]

http://www.campdenbr...ri/pubs_cat.pdf

 

hi syju,

 

Thanks for the link.

 

It's a fantastic organisation but unfortunately necessitates (financial) committment from Top Management.