An Environmental Monitoring Program (EMP) is a systematic way of testing the food production environment, including all food contact surfaces, for potential contamination. It is a key step in a well-developed Food Safety Program.
This step is quite often underestimated, as we see many product recalls being traced to the environment of production. A well-considered and delivered EMP is the best front-line defense against product safety failure. It would be far less costly than a single product recall.
Major global standards such as BRCGS require a well-designed EMP to measure the effectiveness of a current food safety plan in facilities. EMPs can also be necessary to meet local and international regulations.