From June 1, 2021, the implementation of hygiene management in line with HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) has been fully mandated for all food-related business operators in Japan. This mandating has brought major changes to the food industry, and new responses are particularly required of those in charge of equipment at production sites. This article provides a detailed explanation of the impact that HACCP mandating has on business operators.
1. What is HACCP?
HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point)
HACCP is a hygiene management method that analyzes hazards threatening safety in food manufacturing and processing, and continuously monitors and records particularly important steps (Critical Control Points: CCPs). It was developed in the United States in the 1960s to ensure the safety of space food, and has since become the international standard for food hygiene management.
2. Background of the Mandate and Covered Operators
The mandate applies to all food-related business operators engaged in manufacturing, processing, cooking, selling, etc. of food. However, two standards are established depending on business size.
| Category | Covered Operators | Required Response |
|---|---|---|
| Hygiene Management Based on HACCP | Large-scale operators, slaughterhouses, poultry processing facilities | Hygiene management based on Codex HACCP 7 principles |
| Hygiene Management Incorporating HACCP Concepts | Small-scale operators (fewer than 50 employees), attached stores, etc. | Simplified hygiene management based on guides prepared by industry associations |
3. Main Impacts on Food Business Operators
Documentation and Record-Keeping Obligations
Creating hygiene management plans and daily record-keeping and storage become mandatory, increasing administrative workload.
Need for Capital Investment
Equipment renovation may be necessary to meet standards, such as temperature control equipment, washing facilities, and zone separation.
Enhanced Employee Training
Continuous training is required so that all employees understand HACCP concepts and can practice appropriate hygiene management.
Improved Traceability
Traceability improves through record management at each process from raw material receipt to product shipment.
Impact on Business Conditions
Cases where major business partners require proof of HACCP compliance are increasing.
Improved Product Reliability
Science-based hygiene management leads to gaining consumer trust.
4. Challenges Faced by Equipment Staff
Thorough Temperature Management
It is necessary to continuously monitor and record temperatures of refrigeration/freezing equipment, cooking equipment, etc. Introduction of automatic temperature recording systems and adding temperature sensors to existing equipment are required.
Prevention of Cross-Contamination
Traffic flow design and zone separation are necessary to prevent contact between different foods, such as raw materials and processed goods, or foods for raw consumption and those requiring heating. In some cases, reviewing the production line or installing partitions may be necessary.
Strengthening Washing and Sterilization Equipment
Equipment investment to maintain cleanliness is required, such as adding handwashing facilities, introducing automatic handwashing devices, and standardizing washing methods for manufacturing equipment.
Building a Record-Keeping System
Paper-based records become cumbersome to manage, so digitization for efficiency is effective. The use of IoT technology is advancing, such as automatic recording of temperature data and tablet input of checklists.
💡 Key Points for Capital Investment
It is not necessary to introduce everything at once. We recommend first prioritizing equipment related to Critical Control Points (CCPs) and building up gradually. Subsidy programs from local governments and industry associations may also be available.
5. Benefits Brought by the Mandate
Compliance requires effort and cost, but HACCP implementation offers the following benefits.
| Benefit | Specific Effect |
|---|---|
| Prevention of food accidents | By identifying and managing hazards in advance, the risk of food poisoning and foreign matter contamination is greatly reduced |
| Efficient complaint handling | Detailed records enable rapid investigation and response when problems occur |
| Reduction of product loss | Appropriate process management reduces the rate of defective products |
| Improved international competitiveness | Since HACCP compliance is required by export destinations, opportunities for overseas expansion increase |
| Improved employee awareness | Understanding the scientific basis of hygiene management improves quality awareness on the production floor |
6. Risks of Non-Compliance
HACCP mandating is legally based, and non-compliance carries the following risks.
Administrative Guidance / Business Suspension
If non-compliance is discovered during a health center inspection, there is a possibility of improvement guidance or revocation of the business license.
Risk of Contract Termination
Major distributors and restaurant chains are increasingly requiring HACCP compliance as a condition of business.
Damage to Corporate Image
If a food accident occurs and non-compliance with HACCP is reported, it will have a major impact on the company’s credibility.
7. Summary
While the HACCP mandate places new burdens on food business operators, it also brings major long-term benefits, including improved food safety, reduced accident risks, and enhanced international competitiveness. As equipment staff, it is important to understand the actual situation on the production floor and advance compliance gradually while prioritizing.
It may feel like a burden at first, but it is important to view HACCP compliance not as a “cost” but as an “investment.” Building an appropriate hygiene management system leads to improved product quality, employee mindset transformation, gaining trust from business partners, and ultimately, increased corporate value.
If you have questions, we recommend consulting your local health center, industry association, or a specialized consultant. Many local governments hold free consultation services and seminars, so make good use of them.
Inquiries & Consultations Here
