In the UK, Europe and EU all food businesses, including restaurants, cafes, and all premises involved in the preparation and sale of food, are legally required to have a food safety management system based on the principles of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP).
Key Points of HACCP Food Safety Requirements:
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Legal Obligation: The requirement for a HACCP-based system is mandated by EU food hygiene regulations, which have been retained in UK law after Brexit. This is stipulated under the Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013 and equivalent legislation in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
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HACCP Principles: The HACCP system involves identifying potential hazards that could occur in the food production process and implementing measures to control these risks. The seven principles of HACCP include hazard analysis, identifying critical control points, establishing critical limits, monitoring procedures, corrective actions, verification procedures, and record-keeping.
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Flexibility for Small Businesses: While all food businesses must have a HACCP-based system, the complexity of the system can vary depending on the size and nature of the business. Small businesses may use simpler systems, such as the Food Standards Agency’s “Safer Food, Better Business” pack, which is designed to help smaller businesses comply with the requirement.
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Documentation and Record Keeping: Businesses are expected to maintain documentation and records that show their adherence to HACCP principles. This is crucial for inspections and audits by local authorities to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
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Training and Implementation: Staff involved in food preparation must be trained to understand and implement the HACCP system effectively. This ensures that all employees are aware of the critical control points and the necessary actions to maintain food safety.
Why Guardstar is the best Food Safety System available
1. Bluetooth Digital Temperature Sensors:
Guardstar employs cutting-edge Bluetooth digital temperature sensors that are strategically placed in fridges and freezers. These sensors continuously monitor the temperature, ensuring that perishable goods are stored safely. Unlike manual checks, which are prone to human error, these sensors provide precise, real-time data, significantly enhancing food safety which all feed to app and are constantly monitored and recorded.
2. Real-Time Alerts:
One of the standout features of the Guardstar system is its ability to send real-time alerts. If a fridge or freezer is accidentally left open, the system immediately notifies the restaurant or café owner. This instant communication can prevent potential disasters, such as spoiled stock or foodborne illnesses, by allowing swift corrective action.
3. Time Efficiency:
Traditional food safety methods require staff to dedicate time to manual checks and logging, which can be both tedious and time-consuming. Guardstar’s automated monitoring system streamlines these processes. By reducing the need for manual intervention, staff can focus on more critical tasks like customer service and food preparation, thereby increasing overall efficiency.
4. Ease of Use:
The digital interface of the Guardstar system is user-friendly, making it accessible to all staff members, regardless of their technological proficiency. This ease of use ensures that the system can be seamlessly integrated into daily operations without extensive training or disruption.
5. Digital – Enhanced Accountability and Compliance:
With digital records, restaurant managers can easily access historical data for audits and inspections. This transparency not only simplifies compliance with food safety regulations but also enhances accountability, as all actions are automatically documented.
Digital Food Safety – The Technological Edge
Embracing technology in food safety management transforms how restaurants operate. The Guardstar system exemplifies how digital solutions can provide peace of mind, knowing that food safety is being vigilantly monitored without the constant need for manual oversight. This not only safeguards the business from potential losses but also builds trust with customers, who can be assured of the highest standards of food safety.
While traditional pen and paper diaries have served their purpose, the Guardstar digital food safety system represents the future of food safety management. By leveraging technology, it offers a more reliable, efficient, and user-friendly approach that benefits business owners and operators.