Advantage Programs for Food Processors

As a food processor, what Advantage programs apply to me?

There are three levels to the Advantage program for food processors. Each level builds upon the next. You can apply for certification at each level.

Level 1: Advantage Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)

GMPs control hazards related to people and the processing environment. These practices are the basis of any effective food safety program. The Advantage GMP program covers the hazards associated with:

• personnel practices
• shipping, receiving, handling and storage,
• sanitation
• equipment
• pest control
• recall
• water safety
• processing environment

Level 2: Advantage Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP)

Advantage HACCP gives you the tools you need to detect and control hazards specific to your process and products. The program is based on the seven principles of HACCP. It includes the Advantage GMP components as well as eight forms to support an HACCP plan.

Level 3: Advantage Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point Plus (HACCP Plus)

This program includes the prior two levels, plus:

• tools to trace food safety from farm to table
• extra security measures.
  

With this program in place, you will fully document all traceability and security measures. This is an essential step in protecting consumers and your operation in case of a food safety crisis.

Traceability spans across all areas of the food industry, linking food handlers through the sharing of information. For more information on traceability, visit our Advantage Traceability site.

Why Advantage?

Programs like the Advantage Series of Food Safety Programs™ support Ontario food safety laws. They provide a tool to bring consistent food safety practices to food processing plants.

HACCP programs further empower the industry to accept its share of food safety responsibility. Producers, processors, distributors and retailers of food products all directly manufacture and handle the food we all eat. These groups have the most direct influence to ensure that these products are indeed safe. With a program like HACCP, industry can lead the way to improved food safety through the entire food chain.

Learn More

• Explore the benefits of Advantage
• Find out how to get Advantage certified
• Attend training and other events
• Find program resources and funding
• Advantage Grain for the Grain Industry

For more information:
Toll Free: 1-866-641-3663
E-mail: advantage@ontario.ca