What is the purpose of validation in HACCP?

The purpose of validation in HACCP is fundamentally to confirm that the control measures established in the HACCP plan are both adequate and effective in preventing, eliminating, or reducing food safety hazards to acceptable levels. Validation involves reviewing scientific evidence and data to ensure that the methods used in the HACCP plan will achieve the desired safety outcomes when implemented. This is a critical step in ensuring the reliability of the food safety process, as it provides assurance that the controls put in place are functionally capable of managing identified risks.

While assuring that a HACCP plan is well-written, gathering employee input, or creating customer satisfaction surveys may contribute to a broader quality management system, they do not address the core objective of validation, which is directly linked to the adequacy and effectiveness of the hazard control measures addressed in the plan.