FSSC 22000 Certification
What is FSSC 22000?
FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification 22000) is a globally recognized food safety certification scheme designed for organizations involved in the food supply chain. The scheme is based on ISO 22000, sector-specific Prerequisite Programmes (PRPs), and additional FSSC requirements to ensure effective food safety management and control.
FSSC 22000 certification provides independent third-party verification that an organization has established and maintains a robust Food Safety Management System capable of controlling food safety hazards and ensuring the production of safe food products.
Scope of FSSC 22000 Certification
FSSC 22000 certification is applicable to various sectors within the food supply chain, including:
Food Manufacturing
Food Ingredient Production
Animal Feed Production
Food Packaging Manufacturing
Storage and Warehousing
Transportation and Distribution
Catering and Food Services
Food Processing Operations
Pet Food Manufacturing
Biochemical and Food-Related Material Production
The certification covers activities involved in the production, processing, packaging, storage, handling, and distribution of food-related products.
Objectives of FSSC 22000
The objectives of FSSC 22000 are to:
Ensure food safety throughout the supply chain
Control and manage food safety hazards
Strengthen food safety management systems
Improve supply chain transparency and confidence
Enhance traceability and operational control
Support compliance with recognized food safety requirements
Promote continual improvement in food safety performance
Increase confidence among customers and stakeholders
Key Requirements
Food Safety Management System
Organizations must establish, implement, maintain, and continually improve a Food Safety Management System based on ISO 22000 requirements.
Hazard Analysis and Risk Control
Food safety hazards must be identified, evaluated, and controlled through effective preventive measures and operational controls.
Prerequisite Programmes (PRPs)
Appropriate prerequisite programmes must be implemented to maintain hygienic conditions and support food safety objectives.
Traceability and Product Control
Organizations must maintain systems to ensure product traceability, identification, and control throughout the supply chain.
Emergency Preparedness and Response
Documented procedures must be established to address incidents that may affect food safety.
Monitoring and Performance Evaluation
Food safety performance must be monitored, measured, analyzed, and evaluated on a regular basis.
Continual Improvement
Organizations must implement processes to continually improve the effectiveness of the Food Safety Management System.
Certification Process
1. Application
The organization submits an application detailing its activities, products, services, facilities, and food safety operations.
2. Documentation Review
Management system documentation, food safety procedures, and operational records are reviewed to assess conformity with FSSC 22000 requirements.
3. Stage 1 Audit
An initial audit is conducted to review documentation, evaluate preparedness, and determine readiness for certification.
4. Stage 2 Audit
A comprehensive on-site audit is performed to verify implementation and effectiveness of the Food Safety Management System.
5. Certification Decision
Upon successful completion of the audit process, FSSC 22000 certification is issued.
6. Surveillance Audits
Regular surveillance audits are conducted to verify ongoing compliance and effective implementation of certification requirements.
7. Recertification Audit
Organizations must undergo recertification audits at defined intervals to maintain certification status.
Benefits of FSSC 22000 Certification
Globally recognized food safety certification
Independent verification of food safety management practices
Enhanced food safety risk management
Improved traceability and supply chain control
Increased customer and stakeholder confidence
Strengthened operational consistency and reliability
Recognition within international food supply chains
Support for continual improvement in food safety performance
Who Can Be Certified?
FSSC 22000 certification is applicable to:
Food Manufacturers
Beverage Manufacturers
Ingredient Producers
Packaging Manufacturers
Animal Feed Producers
Storage and Warehousing Facilities
Logistics and Distribution Providers
Catering and Food Service Organizations
Food Processing Facilities
Other Organizations Operating Within the Food Supply Chain
Maintaining Certification
Certified organizations must maintain compliance with FSSC 22000 requirements and successfully complete surveillance and recertification audits to retain certification status. Continuous monitoring and periodic assessments help ensure the effectiveness of the Food Safety Management System and support ongoing food safety performance throughout the organization.