What is the sixth HACCP principle?

• A. Establish verification procedures
• B. Determine the critical control points
• C. Establish monitoring procedures
• D. Establish record-keeping and documentation procedures

Answer: (A)

Verification procedures ensure the HACCP plan remains effective over time by confirming that everything set up actually controls hazards as intended. This goes beyond daily monitoring and looks at whether the monitoring is accurate, whether CCPs stay under control, and whether the corrective actions resolve deviations. It includes activities like reviewing monitoring records to confirm trends, calibrating instruments so readings are trustworthy, and conducting independent audits or revalidations of the process, especially when changes occur to ingredients, equipment, or procedures. Through verification you check that the plan is scientifically sound and being applied correctly, and you identify when updates are needed. This is distinct from monitoring, which is ongoing observation, and from record-keeping, which documents actions taken; verification provides evidence that the entire system remains appropriate and effective.