What is a food safety plan?

A food safety plan is essentially a comprehensive written document that delineates the specific food safety practices and protocols implemented within an establishment. This plan is critical in ensuring that foods are handled, prepared, and stored safely to prevent foodborne illnesses and maintain compliance with local and state health regulations.

This document typically includes elements such as hazard analysis, critical control points, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and training protocols for staff, all designed to minimize risks associated with food safety. By detailing these practices, the food safety plan serves as a vital tool for food service operators to ensure that their operations adhere to established food safety standards, ultimately protecting the health of consumers.