What describes a food safety management system (FSMS)?

A food safety management system (FSMS) is a systematic approach to managing food safety. It encompasses the policies, procedures, and practices that are designed to ensure that food is safe for consumption. This comprehensive framework helps organizations identify, evaluate, and control food safety hazards throughout the food supply chain. By using an FSMS, food businesses can implement best practices that enhance food safety, comply with legal requirements, and promote consumer confidence.

A systematic approach means that the FSMS is based on structured methodologies, such as Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) principles, which help prioritize food safety issues and identify critical control points where risks can be mitigated. This proactive methodology reduces the likelihood of foodborne illnesses and ensures that food handling processes meet safety standards.

Options that suggest increasing food variety, focusing on food presentation, or creating new recipes do not align with the core objectives of an FSMS. While these aspects can be important in the culinary world, they do not specifically address the essential elements of food safety management.