Training - Frequently Asked Questions
Q - When does my HACCP certificate expire? PCQI certificate?
There are no expiration dates for HACCP certificates although one GFSI program, PrimusGFS does require a 16-hour HACCP course, with exam, be taken every 5 years. GFSI programs SQF, and BRCGS do not, but employees need training pertinent to their positions. If you have a HACCP certificate and it’s been 5 years, you might take refresher training or another course which supports your work.
There are also no expiration dates for any of the FSMA courses, but the Preventive Controls Rule notes that employees need regular training pertinent to their positions.
What is the GFSI, Global Food Safety Initiative?
Programs include SQF, BRCGS, FSSC22000, PrimusGFS, GLOBALG.A.P.
The Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) was started by international retailers and created a "benchmark" to harmonize the various programs started in different countries. These programs raised the bar for food suppliers above basic regulatory inspections. They are not affiliated with the FDA or USDA, but require that companies comply with their country's regulations. Many larger retailers want GFSI certified suppliers.
Applied Food Safety Solutions offers training and consulting services to prepare your team to implement a GFSI program.
What is the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) ?
Developed by the FDA, FSMA Rules include regulations to promote the prevention of food safety issues before they happen.
They include Rules for:
*Manufacturers: Preventive Controls for Human and Animal food
*On-farm operations: Produce Safety
*Importers: Foreign Supplier Verification Program and
*Transport: Sanitary Transportation
*All Intentional Adulteration (food defense)
The FSPCA manages the Training courses. Ingrid Penuela is an approved Lead Instructor for Preventive Controls for Human Food (PCQI) and for Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP) training.
What are the Elements of HACCP: cGMPs, SOPs, SSOP
How does HACCP compare to FSMA's Preventive Controls rule?