HACCP, also known as Hazard analysis and critical control points is a globally recognized standard for food safety that helps in a systematic way of identifying, evaluating, and controlling biological, chemical, and physical hazards in all stages of the food cycle starting from raw material production, procurement and handling, preparation processes including manufacturing, packaging, distribution and consumption of the finished food products. 

The main aim of HACCP is to identify, control & prevent hazards in the entire food production chain. Apart from food, HACCP is also applicable in some of the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries. 

Implementing HACCP standards to your organization helps protect consumer health, and contamination of food, prevents foodborne illnesses or diseases, and maintains consumer confidence in the quality and safety of the brand. This is given prime importance in the food industry.

Which industries need HACCP certification in Nigeria? Who should get HACCP certification in Nigeria?   

Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points in Nigeria is essential for industries involved in food production, processing, manufacturing, distribution, and handling. Below is the list of industries who need HACCP certification in Nigeria

1. Food manufacturing & production facilities: Companies that are involved in the manufacturing & production of a wide range of food products which includes beverages, canned goods, dairy products, baked goods, and processed foods.
2. Food processing units: Food production facilities that handle raw food materials and process them into finished products, such as meat processing plants, seafood, fruit and vegetable processing facilities, and grain mills needs to comply with HACCP standard
3. Foodservice: Restaurants, cafes, catering, and other places where food is prepared, handled, and served to customers must be HACCP certified in Nigeria.
4. Retail: Supermarkets, grocery stores, and other retail outlets that sell food products directly to consumers need HACCP Nigeria.
5. Distribution & Transportation: Companies who are involved in the transportation, storage, and distribution of food products which includes logistics companies, warehouses, and cold storage facilities.
6. Agriculture: Farms and agricultural operations involved in the production of fruits, vegetables, grains, livestock, and other food commodities.
7. Food packaging and labelling: Companies who are involved in manufacturing of packaging foods or related materials & provide labelling services for food products are those who need to comply with HACCP standard in Nigeria

Overall, any type of industry that is involved in the production, processing, handling, storage, transportation, or distribution of food-related products can benefit from HACCP certification to ensure food safety and compliance with HACCP requirements in Nigeria.

How much does HACCP certification cost in Nigeria? What are the factors considered in determining HACCP consulting charges in Nigeria? 

The cost of HACCP attestation in Nigeria can vary depending on several factors such as the location of the company, nature of business, size, complexity of the organization, scope of certification, number of products, departments operating in the organization, and the chosen certification body. Generally, the cost includes expenses related to the below activities:

1. Initial assessment and gap analysis

2. Training (Awareness & Internal auditor)

3. Assistance in documentation & review

4. Internal audit charges

5. HACCP Auditing fee

6. Certification & surveillance charges

7. Consultant & auditor charges

8. HACCP certification renewal charges

The cost of getting HACCP certification can range from a few hundred to several thousand euros, depending on the above factors. It’s very important for organizations to get quotes from different HACCP certification bodies in Nigeria and consider the benefits that can add value to the overall certification when assessing the cost. 

Additionally, Organisations should consider getting HACCP certification to their organizations keeping in mind it as an investment since it has many benefits to offer such as improved food safety & overall operations, compliance with regulations, and enhanced brand reputation, which can outweigh the initial expenses.

What are the documents required to get HACCP certification in Nigeria? HACCP documentation checklist

To apply for HACCP registration in Nigeria, below are the listed documents required for HACCP certification in Nigeria

1. HACCP Plan: This outlines a detailed plan of the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) system specific to your organization’s operations, including hazard identification, control measures, monitoring procedures, corrective actions, and verification activities.

2. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Document all the procedures related to each department & food production and handling which should include sanitation, hygiene, cleaning, pest control, equipment maintenance, and personnel practices.

3. Maintains training records: a detailed record to be maintained of when employees have received HACCP training in Nigeria on basic awareness, HACCP principles, food safety practices, and training on their specific roles and responsibilities.

4. Floor plan Layout and Facility Diagrams: Diagrams of the manufacturing site showing the layout of the facility, workflow, and process steps involved in food production, storage, and distribution

5. Supplier Agreements: Sign agreements or contracts with suppliers to make sure that raw materials and ingredients they supply meet specified quality and safety standards.

6. Product Specifications: Specifications for raw materials, ingredients, and finished products, including quality criteria, labelling requirements, and details & shelf-life.

7. Monitoring & Verification Records: Records to be documented with regard to the on-going monitoring of critical control points, as well as verification activities such as product testing, equipment calibration, and internal audits.

8. Corrective Action Procedures: Procedures for addressing diversions or changes from critical limits, non-conformities, and other issues identified during monitoring and verification activities.

9. Recall Plan: A documented plan to be maintained which should include the procedures for managing and taking action on product recalls, including communication with interested parties, customers, regulatory authorities, and the public.

10. Application Form for certification: Application form to be submitted with the details of company name, address, scope & other information & other paperwork required by the certification body for initiating the HACCP certification process in Nigeria.

Along with the above documents the organization also needs to submit the following list of documents to apply for the certification – Company trade license, food license, Organisation chart, company sales or purchase order sample, and company address proof.

The above-mentioned documents help demonstrate the organization’s commitment to food safety and compliance with HACCP principles, helping to streamline the certification process. It’s essential to work closely and seek guidance with your certification body to ensure that you provide all necessary documentation and meet their specific requirements.

How long is the HACCP certification valid in Nigeria? When should companies renew HACCP certificate in Nigeria?

The HACCP certification in Nigeria is typically valid for 3 years. During this 3 years validity period, organizations are required to undergo surveillance audits & renew the certificate each year to ensure on-going compliance with HACCP principles and standards. 

These surveillance audits may be conducted annually by the certification body or an accredited third-party auditor, It’s essential for organizations to stay updated on changes to HACCP standards and regulatory requirements to maintain certification validity. 

Failing to comply with HACCP certification requirements or in addressing non-conformities found during audits can result in suspension or revocation of the certification. 

Regular internal audits and continuous improvement efforts should be given importance by the organization to ensure on-going compliance and maintain HACCP certification & keep it valid. After the completion of 3^rd year, the organization must re-apply for HACCP certification in Nigeria.

HACPP certification process in Nigeria. A step-by-step guide to getting HACCP compliant in Nigeria

1. Create a project plan & conduct gap assessment  & work on findings

2.   Provide necessary training to employees & process heads on basic awareness & on how to conduct internal audits

3.   End-to-end HACCP Documentation creation

4. Documentation review & corrections

5. Internal audit

6. Closure of observations found in internal audit

7. Management review meeting

8. Apply for an external audit with the certification body

9. Closure of observations found in external audit

10. Final certification

What are some of the other food safety standards organizations should consider in Nigeria along with HACCP?

ISO 22000:2018 (Food safety management system): ISO 22000 certification in Nigeria specifies requirements for a food safety management system that can be applied by any organization in the food chain, from farm to fork.

FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification): FSSC 22000 certification in Nigeria is a scheme for food safety management systems that integrates ISO 22000 and additional requirements recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI).

GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices): GMP certification in Nigeria outlines the basic principles and procedures to make sure those products are consistently produced and controlled according to quality standards that are important to ensure the quality and safety of food products.

BRCGS (British Retail Consortium Global Standards): BRCGS certification in Nigeria provides a framework for food safety management systems, with a focus on product safety, legality, and quality.

HACCP certification benefits in Nigeria. Reasons why HACCP implementation in Nigeria is important

Top advantages of implementing HACCP standard to your food business in Nigeria:

1. Improved Food Safety & Overall Quality: HACCP food safety in Nigeria ensures that all kinds of hazards are identified, controlled, and prevented, leading to the production of safer food products for consumers.

2. Enhanced customer trust & Brand Reputation: HACCP-certified companies in Nigeria indicate commitment to food safety and the quality food they produce, enhancing brand reputation and consumer trust in the safety of products they consume which also encourages repeat business.

3. Streamlined manufacturing process & overall operations: Developing & Implementing the HACCP plan in Nigeria helps organizations in optimizing operations making the production process more streamlined and efficient which will help in the reduction of wastage as well.

4. Increased access to market: HACCP accreditation in Nigeria is often considered as a prerequisite for doing business with retailers, suppliers, and customers who require assurance of food safety standards. Hence, having a HACCP certificate can help you get more business reach & worldwide market access.

5. Continuous Improvement: Since HACCP guidelines in Nigeria require regular internal audits, surveillance audits, and monitoring and maintaining of documents, it develops a culture of continuous improvement and ensures on-going compliance with food safety standards within the organization which helps maintain stability in everyday operations.

6. Improved Hazard & Risk Management: Implementing HACCP principles in Nigeria enables businesses to proactively identify and mitigate food safety risks & Hazards, reducing the contamination of the food, the likelihood of foodborne illnesses, and product recalls.

7. Cultivating a safe work culture: Providing HACCP training in Nigeria to the employees can promote a safe and responsible work culture. It allows them to take proactive steps in identifying and preventing potential hazards in the process.

8. Cost savings: Implementing a HACCP system in Nigeria will help businesses streamline their existing process & practices which will help in the reduction of waste, and product recalls, and avoid any fines or penalties with regard to non-compliance with food safety regulations. This can help in saving costs over time.

9. Legal & Regulatory compliance: HACCP food certification in Nigeria demonstrates compliance with regulatory requirements and helps food businesses & other establishments meet legal obligations & requirements related to food safety.

What are the 7 principles of HACCP? HACCP certification Principles are explained in brief.

The seven principles of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) are as follows:

Principle 1. Conduct Hazard Analysis for entire your processes: Identify, analyse  & evaluate potential biological, chemical, microbiological, and physical hazards in the food production process & provide preventive measures for each hazard.

Principle 2. Determine the critical control points (CCPs): Identify the points in the system where control measures need to be applied to keep the product safe and free from any health hazards to prevent, eliminate, or reduce hazards to acceptable levels.

Principle 3. Establish Critical Limits: Establish critical limits for each CCP, each CCP must be assigned with minimum and maximum allowable limit values to ensure food safety.

Principle 4. Establish Monitoring Procedures: Develop a monitoring procedures process to regularly observe measure & maintain CCPs to ensure they are within critical limits so that food safety compliance is consistently maintained.

Principle 5. Establish Corrective Actions: define corrective actions to be taken when monitoring indicates that a CCP is not within critical limits, establish a set of definite corrective actions that will bring the concerned parameter to safe levels including identifying the cause of the deviation and taking steps to prevent recurrence.

Principle 6. Establish Verification Procedures: Establish procedures to verify that the HACCP system is working effectively, including reviewing records, conducting audits, and testing samples. This will help organizations understand if the food safety plan is working as expected.

Principle 7. Establish Record-Keeping and Documentation: All food safety documents & files related to the HACCP system should be maintained properly which should include records & files documenting the HACCP plan, hazard analysis, CCPs, critical limits, monitoring results, corrective actions, verification activities, and any modifications to the plan.  

What are HACCP certification requirements in Nigeria? How long does it take to get HACCP certification in Nigeria?

For organizations to receive HACCP food safety certification in Nigeria, it is very necessary that you meet certain criteria and specific requirements set by the standard. 

Although the HACCP requirements are the same worldwide, they will vary depending on the type of food business you are into. Let’s take an example, if you are looking to get seafood HACCP verification in Nigeria, you may need to meet specific requirements that differ slightly from someone who is getting a food truck HACCP certified in Nigeria. 

Hence, before applying for HACCP accreditation in Nigeria for your organization, it is recommended that you completely understand the requirements of the standard based on the seven principles of HACCP.

1. HACCP Plan & execution: Develop and implement a HACCP plan tailored to your specific operations, products, and hazards. The plan should include the following activities – Conducting hazard analysis, Determining critical control points (CCPs), establishing of critical limits, Establishing monitoring procedures, corrective actions, verification procedures, and record-keeping protocols.

2. Training: HACCP consultants should ensure that the employees & process heads who are involved in the development, implementation, and maintenance of the HACCP system are given necessary training on HACCP principles, procedures, and best practices to, maintain regular compliance.

3. Documentation: Develop & Maintain documentation of the HACCP system, which should include the HACCP plan, hazard analysis, CCP monitoring records, corrective action reports, verification records, internal audit reports, and employee training records.

4. Internal Audits: conducting internal audits regularly are integral part of maintaining HACCP compliance, evaluating the effectiveness & continuous improvement of the HACCP system, and identifying areas for improvement & to make necessary adjustments to procedures based on audit findings. Internal audits are to be conducted at least once a year.

5. External Audit & certification: Schedule for an external audit with a HACCP certification body in Nigeria by a recognized accreditation organization. During the audit, the auditor will assess your HACCP system’s compliance with HACCP principles and regulatory requirements clearing the audit will result in final certification

6. Maintaining Certification & continuous improvement: After the final certificate is received it is important to maintain it by continuing to adhere to the requirements of HACCP principles by conducting regular internal audits, and going through in periodic surveillance audits conducted by the certification body.

The time it takes to obtain an HACCP certificate online in Nigeria can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of your food production processes & the readiness of your organization to implement HACCP principles, and the efficiency of your certification process. Generally, the timeline for HACCP certification can range from 2-6 months or more.

Why companies should implement HACCP in Nigeria? Importance of HACCP consultants in Nigeria

Implementing Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points in Nigeria is very important for companies to ensure food safety standards within the organization and comply with HACCP certification requirements in Nigeria. Food safety risks and hazards will always be a problem in food-related businesses. 

Hence, Implementing the HACCP plan into the system can help food companies such as food processing plants and other food-related businesses eliminate food-borne diseases and food contamination from scratch, so it is necessary for organizations to make use of such a plan, or implement other food safely related standards into their facility, to produce hazard free foods to protect their customers from the severe health effects caused by food-related hazards.

HACCP certification consultants in Nigeria play a very important role in guiding food-related businesses through the implementation and maintenance of HACCP systems. 

Their guidance & expertise ensure organizations meet & comply with food safety regulations, identify potential hazards, and develop effective control measures, ultimately helping improve the overall operations of the facility & enhancing the reputation of businesses by producing hazard-free foods.

Roles & responsibilities of HACCP consulting firm in Nigeria: How to get the right HACCP consulting services in Nigeria?

1. Planning, Assessment, Implementation:  Firstly a HACCP consultant in Nigeria will conduct a detailed assessment of the client’s current food safety practices, facilities, and processes & develop a project plan with the deliverables of all the activities covered in the entire consultation process, time & resources required for each activity and help in designing and implementing customized HACCP plans tailored to the specific needs and operations of the client practically and efficiently.

2. Conduct Training: Providing comprehensive training programs to educate employees & process heads on HACCP principles, procedures, best practices & their roles & responsibilities to maintain regular compliance with HACCP standards.

3. Documentation assistance and Record-Keeping: Documentation is a crucial aspect is HACCP hazard analysis in Nigeria. Our consultants help in the creation and maintenance of detailed documentation required for HACCP compliance which includes hazard analysis, critical control points, monitoring procedures, corrective actions, verification records & record-keeping making it easy for organizations to manage HACCP plan

4. Assistance in audits & Continuous Improvement: assistance in conducting periodic internal audits and inspections to ensure on-going compliance with HACCP standards since Food safety is an on-going process our consultants will monitor and review your HACCP system & its efficiency and provide inputs on areas of improvement and other necessary recommendations to keep you updated with changing regulations or industry standards to stay compliant.

If you are wondering how to get HACCP consultants in Nigeria following are the things you need to consider & evaluate to find the right HACCP consulting agency in Nigeria, start by defining your needs and researching online for HACCP certification online in Nigeria to choose the right experienced professionals.

Check their details including past experience with HACCP projects and relevant industry experience. Look out for referrals & review their projects from trusted sources and client testimonials. 

Conduct meetings with the consultant to assess their expertise, approach, Scope of Services, and knowledge of Legal and Regulatory requirements to deliver quality service. 

Request proposals and negotiate terms, ensuring alignment with your budget and expectations Once selected, monitor progress closely and communicate openly throughout the engagement to ensure successful implementation of HACCP principles and compliance with food safety standards.

How HACCP audit process in Nigeria works? What are the steps involved in the HACCP audit in Nigeria?

The HACCP audit services in Nigeria is a thorough assessment conducted on the company’s operations & documentation to ensure food safety and regulatory compliance with HACCP requirements. 

The audit is usually conducted from a HACCP certifying agency in Nigeria wherein a lead auditor will begin with planning and preparation, where an organization needs to define the scope and objectives. 

An on-site assessment is then carried out on the product facility, processes, and employee’s practices related to food safety. The auditor evaluates hazard analysis procedures to identify potential risks and critical control points where measures are applied. 

Monitoring and verification procedures are scrutinized to ensure control measures are effectively implemented and verified. Corrective actions are assessed for addressing deviations from critical limits. 

Documentation related to HACCP such as plans, monitoring records, procedures, policies, and corrective actions is reviewed to check their effectiveness & accuracy. 

Post external audit, a report is generated which includes details about findings in audit such as non-conformities, and recommendations for improvement. Organizations must work on those findings verify compliance and monitor progress. 

Ultimately, the HACCP audit process serves to maintain the integrity of food safety management systems to ensure the production of safe and quality food products.

Who provides HACCP certification in Nigeria? How to get HACCP certification services in Nigeria?

So if you are wondering who gives HACCP certification in Nigeria & how to get HACCP certified in Nigeria the simple answer is to find an HACCP consulting & certification agency in Nigeria like CertEase. Who takes up the entire responsibility of delivering end-to-end HACCP services economically & efficiently?

With a Proven Track Record & experience of over 10+ years CertEase offers tailored  & Customized Solutions for all your food safety consulting, training  & certification needs for further details you can drop an inquiry by visiting our official website www.certease.com or reach out to us by writing us a mail on contact@certease.com or by calling us on +91 89517-32524 to get instant response from our HACCP experts in Nigeria.