An approach for assessing CCP effectiveness in food production applications by predictive QRA modelling

The basic process in creating hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP) plans is that significant hazards associated with a food product are determined, and then the key steps where a hazard might occur in food production are redesigned in an effort to avoid insertion of a critical control point (CCP). In the event that it is not possible to remove the risk of a hazard by redesigning the process steps, a CCP should be inserted. Production of safe food ultimately relies on the effectiveness, i.e. the capability and reliability, of process design and, where necessary, control and monitoring systems at a CCP. Therefore, pre-established thresholds must be monitored and managed to ensure that food safety is maintained. Doménech et al. [Assessing the effectiveness of critical control points to guarantee food safety. Food Control 2008;19:557–65] proposed an original approach to quantify the effectiveness of a CCP based on the consideration of the capability and reliability of the control and monitoring system related to food manufacturing and public health. The article described a methodology for measuring the effectiveness of a CCP in terms of the risk to consumer health as well as the potential impact on company revenues. This paper presents the fundamentals of an application example of the methodology to integrate CCP effectiveness assessment into predictive QRA modelling. The method is original and its application in the food industry could provide the decision-maker with a quantitative tool for setting critical limits and monitoring variations at a CCP. This would allow risk management decisions to be made at-line (i.e., in real time) during a specific process. Not only could this prevent a hazardous food from reaching the consumer, but it also could contribute to reduced expense for the producer. The wasted expense of product completion incorporating a tainted material would be avoided as well as the potentially higher costs associated with product liability issues.