Final answer:
The predetermined step taken when a critical limit is not met in the HACCP system is a corrective action. This step is essential to manage any deviations and prevent the release of unsafe product.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) system, the predetermined step taken when a critical limit is not met is known as a corrective action. This is a principle that dictates that when monitoring indicates a deviation from an established critical limit, procedures must be performed to regain control of the process and ensure that no unsafe product is released. The corrective actions are specifically designed so that the cause of the deviation is addressed and future occurrences are prevented.
It's important to understand that preventive action is about taking steps to prevent a critical limit breach before it occurs, monitoring is the act of conducting a planned sequence of observations or measurements to assess whether a CCP is under control and to produce an accurate record for future use in verification, and verification is the application of methods, procedures, and tests in addition to monitoring to determine if the HACCP system is working as intended.