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Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP).
To those who have never been employed in the hospitality and/or foodservice sector, these words probably don’t ring any bells.
But, trust me, they have revolutionized the industry.
HACCP is a system of procedures which makes it possible to identify, and eventually eliminate, the risks of contamination associated with food preparation.
Basically, it is based on seven cardinal principles, as simple as they are mandatory:
1) Conduct a hazard analysis.
2) Determine the critical control points (CCPs).
3) Establish critical limits.
4) Establish monitoring procedures.
5) Establish corrective actions.
6) Establish verification procedures.
7) Establish record-keeping and documentation procedures.
How do procedures seem to belong to a military corps rather than a kitchen?
Well… almost!
The protocol was first developed in the ’60s by NASA, the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration. At the time, a system of procedures was being sought in order to be able to provide for the nutritional needs of the astronauts with the greatest possible care, avoiding any type of microbial contamination.
NASA was in the business of space travel though, not food processing.
Hence the idea of requesting the collaboration of Pillsbury (a leading company in the sector at the time. The “doughboy“, you know?).
After all, ensuring crumb- and pathogen-free food that had extensive shelf-life properties was of crucial strategic importance in the period of the “space race” of the Cold War.
The procedure worked so well that it was implemented and adapted to “terrestrial” kitchens, and later incorporated first by the American FDA, and then by various national legislations starting from the 90s.
So, if they left you with the onerous (and tedious) task of monitoring allergens, marking expiration dates, and checking thermostats… be proud!
You are doing something worthy of an astronaut!
In conclusion, if you work in catering industry and/or hospitality and you are interested in my #copywriting and/or #contentwriting services, just contact me!
