FS inspection and control programs Report

DOCUMENT DESCRIPTION

The components of a robust national food control system include a strong policy and regulatory framework, standards and guidelines aligned with those of the Codex Alimentarius and the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) where relevant, adequate resources to support the programs, shared responsibility, coordination and communication amongst all stakeholders, effective risk-based operational management of food controls along the entire food chain and feed chain, scientific capacity to conduct risk assessment, including laboratory capability, data and information collection/generation to support risk-based control measures, food safety emergency response plans, international connectivity and collaboration, food safety communications and education, including staff competence and training and performance monitoring for periodic review and continuous improvement. Food safety (FS) inspection and control is an important activity in a food control system and one which is always prioritized for early detection, prevention and effective handling of related food safety incidents, including food-borne diseases (FBD) and food poisoning. These incidents are an unfortunate outcome of a breakdown in the food control system.