What is the seventh principle of HACCP?

The seventh principle of HACCP is to establish record-keeping and documentation procedures. This principle is crucial because effective documentation and record-keeping serve as the foundation for ensuring that the HACCP plan is implemented correctly and can be verified. Documentation provides evidence that critical control points (CCPs) are being monitored, that critical limits are either being met or not, and confirms corrective actions are taken when necessary.

Having thorough records allows for traceability, which is essential for accountability and continuous improvement in food safety practices. It ensures that all processes and the rationale behind them are clearly documented, making it easier to review and adjust practices based on historical data. In addition, proper documentation is often a regulatory requirement that supports compliance during inspections by food safety authorities. This principle ties together the entire HACCP system, ensuring that it operates as intended and can be audited or reviewed as needed.