Which HACCP principle is being applied when reviewing temperature records to ensure cooking temperatures were recorded properly?

• A. Monitoring
• B. Validation
• C. Verification
• D. Documentation

Answer: (C)

Verifying is the process of confirming that the HACCP plan is being implemented correctly and that the data from monitoring are accurate and complete. When you review temperature records, you’re checking that the cooking temperatures were actually achieved and that the readings were captured as intended—this includes confirming that thermometers were calibrated, readings were taken at the required times, and the recorded values match what the equipment shows. This step ensures the monitoring activity is trustworthy and that the records reflect reality, which is essential before you can rely on the plan to prevent hazards. It’s different from monitoring, which is the ongoing check of CCPs; validation, which assesses whether the plan can control hazards in principle; and documentation, which is about keeping and organizing the records.