HACCP (Hazard analysis and critical control point)
HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point) is a systematic
approach to food safety that focuses on identifying and preventing
potential hazards in food production. In a restaurant setting, here are the
key things you need to check and manage:
1. Conduct Hazard Analysis
• Identify biological (bacteria, viruses), chemical (cleaners, toxins),
and physical (glass, metal) hazards.
• Analyse each step of food handling: receiving, storage, preparation,
cooking, cooling, reheating, and serving.
2. Determine Critical Control Points (CCPs)
• Points where control is essential to prevent or reduce a hazard:
• Cooking temperatures
• Hot/cold holding temperatures
• Cooling and reheating processes
• Food delivery and storage
3. Set Critical Limits for Each CCP
• Cook chicken to a core temp of 75°C
• Keep cold food below 5°C, hot food above 63°C
• Reheat food to at least 75°C within 2 hours
4. Establish Monitoring Procedures
• Use thermometers to check temperatures
• Check logs for fridge and freezer temps
• Observe hygiene practices
• Monitor cleaning schedules
5. Establish Corrective Actions
• What to do when a critical limit is not met:
• Re-cook undercooked food
• Discard food held too long in the danger zone
• Clean and sanitize contaminated equipment
6. Establish Verification Procedures
• Internal audits
• Review logs and records
• Staff training evaluations
• Microbiological testing (if needed)
7. Record Keeping
• Temperature logs (cooking, storage, delivery)
• Cleaning checklists
• Staff hygiene training records
• Corrective action reports
• Additional Checks in the Restaurant
• Personal hygiene: Hand washing, clean uniforms, no illness
• Cross-contamination control: Separate raw and cooked foods
• Pest control
• Equipment maintenance: Proper function and cleanliness
• Allergen control