What is the purpose of a food safety management system?

A food safety management system is a systematic approach to identify, evaluate, prevent, and control food safety hazards throughout the entire food production process, from farm to fork. The main purpose of a food safety management system is to ensure that the food produced is safe for consumption by consumers and meets legal requirements.

Some key objectives of a food safety management system include:

  • Preventing foodborne illnesses by identifying and controlling potential hazards.
  • Ensuring consistent quality and safety of food products.
  • Ensuring compliance with legal requirements and industry standards.
  • Building consumer trust and confidence in the safety of the food products.

Implementing a food safety management system, such as Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) or ISO 22000, can help food businesses effectively manage food safety risks, reduce the likelihood of contamination or foodborne illness outbreaks, improve overall product quality, and enhance reputation and market competitiveness. Additionally, having a robust food safety management system in place can also help businesses minimize the risk of food recalls and legal liabilities.