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Hazard control tools released to help food business operators

13 February 2009

Two new tools designed to help food business operators develop their food safety management system have been launched onto NZFSA’s website.

The Hazard Database will provide operators with information on hazard(s) that are reasonably likely to occur in New Zealand foods. A successful search results in a list of the hazards associated with particular foods or ingredients, the source of each hazard, regulatory limits (if applicable), the actions a food operator can take to control the hazard as well as any links to pathogen factsheets, science reports, and available guidance material. A user guide and feedback form are also provided.

Draft guidance documents have been developed to cover hazard control measures relating to Good Operating Practice (GOP). GOP incorporates all aspects of Good Hygienic Practice and Good Agricultural Practice/Good Manufacturing Practice that affect the safety and suitability of food. The Draft Guidance for GOP covers areas such as allergen management, cleaning and sanitation, product information, and pest control.

Each guidance document prompts the food business operator to consider what needs to be covered in their own GOP procedures. Operators have until the end of June to pilot any or all of the guidance material and provide comment on its effectiveness, or suggestions for improvement. NZFSA invites comments from any interested person, whether representing an organisation or acting as individuals.

Under the proposed Food Bill, GOP will serve as the foundation of a custom-made Food Control Plan (FCP). GOP is expected to be in place before the application of hazard analysis critical control point (HACCP) to inputs and processes.

Before the new law is enacted, both support tools will be useful for operators developing risk-based programmes such as Food Safety Programmes and Risk Management Programmes, as well as for other people such as regulators, auditors, students and consumers.

The hazard control tools can be found here:

• Hazard Database

• Draft Guidance for GOP