One of the key steps in the development of a HACCP Plan is Hazard Analysis. Hazard analysis requires the risk characterization. Risk characterization has two main components: 1) hazard identification; and 2) hazard characterization. I have evaluated several HACCP Plans through my professional career and have found that risk characterization is a step that is not done properly frequently. This presentation addresses the components of risk characterization and presents a practical example to complete this important area in the development of a HACCP Plan.