How is a CCP determined in HACCP using the decision tree?

• A. Apply the HACCP decision tree: if loss of control at a step would result in a health risk and no other step can control hazards, then it's a CCP.
• B. All steps are automatically CCPs.
• C. CCPs are determined by sales forecasts.
• D. CCPs are determined after the product is on the market.

Answer: (A)

In HACCP, you use a decision tree to pinpoint where control is essential to prevent a real health risk. A step becomes a Critical Control Point when losing control at that step would create a health hazard, and there is no other step in the process that can control that hazard. This ensures the hazard is managed at the only point where effective control is possible. That’s exactly what the statement describes: if a loss of control at a step would result in a health risk and no other step can control hazards, then it’s a CCP. The other options don’t fit because not every step is automatically a CCP, decisions aren’t based on sales forecasts, and CCPs are identified during the HACCP planning phase, not after the product is on the market.