What is meant by a reassessment of a HACCP plan, and when should it occur?

• A. A routine annual financial audit
• B. A one-time initial assessment
• C. A systematic review of the plan to ensure continued effectiveness; triggered by product/process changes, new hazards, regulatory updates, or poor performance
• D. A minor update to supplier list

Answer: (C)

Reassessment means a formal, systematic review of the HACCP plan to ensure it still controls hazards effectively as conditions in the operation change. It’s about keeping the plan relevant and protective over time, not just a one‑off check.

It should happen whenever things change in a way that could affect hazards or how they’re controlled. This includes changes to the product or the process, the identification of new hazards, updates to regulatory or guidance requirements, or when monitoring and verification show that controls aren’t performing as intended. If any of these occur, the plan should be reviewed and updated as needed to maintain safety.