FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification 22000) is a food safety management system certification scheme. It is recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) and is designed to provide a framework for managing food safety and quality responsibilities. FSSC 22000 specifies the requirements for a food safety management system that incorporates Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) principles, and is aligned with ISO 22000 standards.
The number “22000” in FSSC 22000 refers to the standard’s incorporation of ISO 22000, which is an international standard that outlines the requirements for a food safety management system. FSSC 22000 builds on ISO 22000 but includes additional requirements specific to the food industry.
The certification is intended for food manufacturers, food packaging manufacturers, and other companies involved in the food supply chain. The FSSC 22000 certification process involves an audit of a company’s food safety management system by a third-party certification body.
Here’s everything you need to know about FSSC 22000:
What is FSSC 22000?
FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification 22000) is a food safety management system standard that was developed by the Foundation for Food Safety Certification. It was designed to provide a globally recognized framework for food safety management and is based on the ISO 22000 standard, which outlines the requirements for a food safety management system.
What are the key requirements of FSSC 22000?
FSSC 22000 requires organizations to develop and implement a food safety management system that includes the following elements:
- Hazard analysis and risk assessment
- Prerequisite programs (PRPs)
- Operational prerequisite programs (oPRPs)
- Critical control points (CCPs)
- Monitoring and control activities
- Verification and validation activities
- Corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs)
What are the benefits of FSSC 22000 certification?
FSSC 22000 certification offers a number of benefits to organizations, including:
- Increased confidence in the safety and quality of food products
- Compliance with international food safety regulations and requirements
- Improved risk management and hazard prevention
- Improved communication and relationships with suppliers and customers
- Improved operational efficiency and cost savings
How is FSSC 22000 certification achieved?
To achieve FSSC 22000 certification, organizations must implement a food safety management system that meets the requirements of the standard and undergo an audit by an accredited certification body. The audit assesses the organization’s food safety management system and determines whether it meets the requirements of the standard.
What industries can benefit from FSSC 22000 certification?
FSSC 22000 certification is relevant to all organizations involved in the food supply chain, including food manufacturers, processors, packagers, and distributors.
How does FSSC 22000 differ from other food safety management system standards?
FSSC 22000 is based on the ISO 22000 standard, which provides a general framework for food safety management. However, FSSC 22000 also incorporates additional requirements specific to the food industry, such as the inclusion of prerequisite programs and the requirement for certification bodies to be accredited by the International Accreditation Forum (IAF).
What is the role of the Foundation for Food Safety Certification in FSSC 22000?
The Foundation for Food Safety Certification is responsible for the development and maintenance of the FSSC 22000 standard. It also oversees the accreditation of certification bodies and provides guidance to organizations seeking certification.
In summary, FSSC 22000 is a food safety management system standard that provides a globally recognized framework for managing food safety hazards and ensuring the production of safe food products. It is relevant to all organizations involved in the food supply chain and offers a range of benefits, including increased confidence in food safety, compliance with international regulations, and improved operational efficiency.