What does "functional verification" refer to in a HACCP system?

Functional verification in a HACCP system is primarily focused on determining whether the critical control points (CCPs) are operating effectively to meet the intended safety standards set by the HACCP plan. This process involves a systematic evaluation of the CCPs to confirm that they are controlling food safety hazards as expected. By verifying that the established CCPs are functioning as intended, organizations can ensure that their hazard control measures are reliable and effective in maintaining food safety throughout the production process.

This aspect of HACCP is crucial because regular monitoring and verification ensure that any deviations from the planned control measures are identified and addressed promptly, thus preventing potential food safety issues. In conclusion, functional verification serves as a critical checkpoint that ensures the integrity of the HACCP system and reinforces the effectiveness of hazard control measures in real-time operations.