The application of HACCP in the fish processing industry in Southeast Asia, 2000-2003: Philippines

Abstract

BFAR, as the regulatory agency for fish and fish products for export, has initiated a mandatory accreditation programme for fish processing plants based on verified HACCP compliance in conformance to international requirements for the export of fish and aquaculture products. This accreditation is carried out to enable the fish processors to continue their exports to EU and US and other export markets where mandatory implementation of HACCP is required. The mandatory accreditation programme requires the company to submit its Licence to Operate (LTO), Quality/ Safety Assurance Programme, which include the HACCP plan for the specific products to be exported as well as Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOP). LTO, issued by the Department of Health-Bureau of Food and Drugs, will be released to the company on the basis of their compliance to GMP and SSOP. [Extract]