What is the primary objective of a food safety management system (FSMS)?

The primary objective of a food safety management system (FSMS) is to systematically manage food safety risks. This involves identifying potential hazards in the food production and handling process, implementing control measures to minimize those risks, and continuously monitoring the effectiveness of these measures. By establishing a structured approach to food safety, an FSMS ensures that food products are safe for consumption, protecting public health and maintaining regulatory compliance.

In contrast, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of food does not directly contribute to food safety; rather, it focuses on aspects related to marketing and presentation. Reducing overall food costs, while beneficial for profit margins, does not inherently improve food safety and may sometimes conflict with the necessary safety measures. Streamlining food delivery processes is important for operational efficiency but also does not specifically address the management of food safety risks. Hence, focusing on risk management is central to the purpose of an FSMS, making it the most appropriate objective.