Which of the following is true about critical control points?

Critical control points (CCPs) are essential components of a food safety management system, particularly in the HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) framework. The correct statement, which emphasizes the importance of monitoring these points, highlights that CCPs are crucial steps in the food preparation process where potential hazards can be prevented, eliminated, or reduced to acceptable levels.

Monitoring CCPs ensures that specific parameters, such as temperature, time, and pH, stay within predefined limits to prevent foodborne illnesses. Regular monitoring helps identify deviations from the established critical limits, allowing for timely corrective actions to uphold food safety standards. This vigilant approach is what ensures food products are safe for consumption.

Other options suggest that CCPs might be optional or applicable only to certain types of operations, which undermines the fundamental role that CCPs play in safeguarding food safety across all food service operations, regardless of size. Therefore, the emphasis on monitoring critical control points is vital to maintaining a safe food supply and is a cornerstone of effective food safety management.