Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) is a systematic approach to food safety, but many people wonder whether it falls under quality control (QC) or quality assurance (QA). The answer is that HACCP is more aligned with quality assurance, as it focuses on preventing food safety hazards rather than just detecting and correcting them.

Understanding HACCP in Quality Management

HACCP as Quality Assurance (QA)

HACCP is considered part of quality assurance because it emphasizes:

• Prevention over detection – It identifies potential hazards before they occur.
• Process control – Focuses on managing critical points in production to prevent contamination.
• Risk-based approach – Uses scientific analysis to mitigate hazards in advance.
• Documentation and verification – Ensures compliance with food safety standards.
• Continuous improvement – Regular reviews help refine processes and maintain safety.

Differences Between Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC)

Understanding the key differences helps clarify why HACCP is part of QA rather than QC:

• Quality Assurance (QA):
  • Focuses on processes and prevention.
  • Ensures food safety by designing systems to minimize risks.
  • Includes HACCP, GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), and ISO 22000.
  • Example: Setting up a HACCP plan to identify and control contamination risks.
• Quality Control (QC):
  • Focuses on product inspection and defect detection.
  • Ensures food products meet safety and quality standards through testing.
  • Includes microbiological testing, sensory evaluation, and final product inspection.
  • Example: Testing a finished food product for bacteria before it is shipped.

Why HACCP is Not Quality Control

HACCP differs from traditional QC methods because:

• QC relies on end-product testing, while HACCP prevents hazards from occurring.
• QC identifies defects after production, but HACCP controls risks during production.
• QC focuses on compliance with specifications, whereas HACCP ensures food safety at all stages.

Conclusion: HACCP is Quality Assurance

HACCP is a proactive, process-based system that ensures food safety by preventing contamination rather than detecting it after production. While QC plays a role in verifying product quality, HACCP primarily aligns with quality assurance.