How often must the Food Safety Plan be reviewed under FSMA?

• A. Annually
• B. Every 5 years
• C. At least every 3 years or whenever there is a significant change
• D. Never

Answer: (C)

FSMA treats the Food Safety Plan as a living document that must stay current. It should be reviewed at least every three years, and more importantly whenever there is a significant change to the facility, process, ingredients, or suppliers that could affect hazards or the preventive controls. This keeps the hazard analysis accurate and the control measures appropriate, allowing timely updates if new hazards are identified or if existing controls need adjustment—such as when equipment or formulations change, or a new supplier is used. The review is usually performed by the Preventive Controls Qualified Individual and documented in the plan records. Even without changes, periodic review maintains compliance; a significant change triggers a re-analysis and revision.