Food Safety SOP

Food Safety Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

I. Introduction

The Food Safety Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is designed to ensure [Your Company Name] maintains the highest standards of food safety and hygiene in all aspects of its operations. This SOP outlines the procedures and protocols to be followed by all employees involved in food handling, preparation, and serving.

II. Scope

This SOP applies to all [Your Department] staff who handle, prepare, or serve food at [Your Company Name] premises, including kitchen staff, servers, and managers.

III. Responsibilities

A. Management

[Your Company Name] management is responsible for ensuring compliance with all food safety regulations and standards.
Management shall provide necessary resources, training, and support to uphold food safety protocols.

B. Employees

All employees are responsible for following the food safety protocols outlined in this SOP.
Any concerns or observations regarding food safety should be reported immediately to [Your Department] supervisor or manager.

IV. Personal Hygiene

A. Handwashing

Employees must wash their hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds:
- Before handling food
- After using the restroom
- After handling raw meat, poultry, or seafood
- After touching their face, hair, or body

B. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Employees must wear appropriate PPE, including hairnets, gloves, and aprons while handling food.
PPE should be changed regularly and disposed of properly.

V. Food Handling and Storage

A. Receiving

Upon receiving food deliveries, check for:
- Correct temperature
- Proper packaging and labeling
- Signs of damage or spoilage
Reject any items that do not meet standards and document accordingly.

B. Storage

Store perishable items in designated refrigerators or freezers at appropriate temperatures.
Follow the FIFO (First In, First Out) method to ensure older items are used first.
Keep storage areas clean and organized to prevent cross-contamination.

C. Preparation

Thaw frozen food items in the refrigerator or under cold running water.
Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw and cooked foods to prevent cross-contamination.
Cook all food items to their required internal temperatures:
- Refer to the food safety guidelines provided in the kitchen for temperature recommendations.

VI. Cleaning and Sanitizing

A. Surfaces

Clean and sanitize food preparation surfaces, equipment, and utensils regularly throughout the day.
Use approved sanitizers and follow manufacturer instructions for dilution and contact time.

B. Dishwashing

Wash dishes, utensils, and equipment in hot, soapy water.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Sanitize using an approved sanitizer or dishwasher with a sanitizing cycle.

VII. Food Allergen Management

Allergen information must be communicated to customers through menus or verbal communication.
Take necessary precautions to prevent cross-contact between allergens during food preparation and serving.

VIII. Reporting and Documentation

Document all instances of food safety violations, incidents, or concerns.
Report any suspected cases of foodborne illness to [Your Department] management immediately.

IX. Training

All employees must undergo food safety training upon hiring and receive regular refresher training sessions.
Training records should be maintained and updated as needed.

X. Emergency Procedures

In the event of a food safety emergency, follow established protocols for containment, cleanup, and reporting.
Notify [Your Department] management and relevant authorities as necessary.

XI. Review and Revision

This SOP will be reviewed annually by [Your Department] management to ensure relevance and effectiveness.
Any necessary revisions will be made promptly and communicated to all relevant staff members.

XII. Acknowledgment

I acknowledge that I have received and understood the Food Safety Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) outlined above.

[Your Name]

[Date Signed]