Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) Practice Exam

What is the required retention period for records of acidified canned food?

1. 1 year

2. 2 years

3. 3 years

4. 5 years

The correct answer is: 3 years

The retention period for records of acidified canned food is indeed three years. This requirement is in place to ensure that food safety documentation is readily available for inspection and verification. Keeping records for this duration allows for adequate monitoring of the food safety processes involved in acidifying canned foods and assists in tracking any potential issues that may arise after production. The three-year retention period provides a balance between ensuring traceability of food products and not overly burdening food businesses with excessive data retention requirements. This timeframe is aligned with regulatory standards that require manufacturers to maintain adequate records to support safety and compliance with guidelines. In practice, if a safety concern arises, having access to three years’ worth of records allows for thorough investigations and ensures that corrective actions can be taken efficiently to mitigate any risks associated with acidified canned foods.