Validation vs. Verification: Where do most sites trip up?

[Sam]

It’s one of the most common non-conformances in BRCGS or SALSA audits—confusing Validation (will it work?) with Verification (did it work?). While we all have our daily check sheets, the initial validation of a CCP—like a cook temperature or a metal detector sensitivity—is where the real scientific 'proof' is needed.

I’m curious to hear from the technical minds here:

• What’s your 'gold standard' for validating a new piece of kit? Do you rely on manufacturer data, or do you run exhaustive in-house challenge tests?
• How often are you re-validating your processes? Is an annual review enough, or do you trigger a fresh look every time a raw material spec changes?