Which statement best describes an operational prerequisite program (OPRP) in HACCP?

• A. A CCP that is essential to prevent hazards.
• B. A prerequisite program that reduces hazards to acceptable levels but is not considered a CCP.
• C. A planning tool for marketing.
• D. Not needed if CCPs exist.

Answer: (B)

An operational prerequisite program is a type of prerequisite program that handles significant hazards through routine operating controls, but it is not a critical control point. It exists to keep hazards under control and reduce them to acceptable levels as part of the HACCP plan, yet it isn’t the specific step where you apply a control as a CCP. So the best description is that it’s a prerequisite program that reduces hazards to acceptable levels but is not considered a CCP. This fits because OPRPs are about managing general process and facility controls (like sanitation, maintenance, supplier controls, or allergen management) that support safety without being a CCP. The other options mischaracterize an OPRP as a CCP, a marketing planning tool, or something unnecessary if CCPs exist.