In today’s food industry, food safety is among the most critical factors for sustainable business development, consumer confidence, and access to international markets. Food manufacturers, processors, logistics operators, and all organizations throughout the food supply chain face increasingly demanding requirements related to risk management, traceability, and regulatory compliance. In this context, FSSC 22000 has established itself as one of the most recognized food safety certification schemes worldwide.
 
What is FSSC 22000
FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification 22000) is an internationally recognized certification scheme for Food Safety Management Systems (FSMS). The scheme is developed by Foundation FSSC and recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), making it widely accepted by international retailers, manufacturers, and global companies operating within the food sector.
FSSC 22000 is based on:

• ISO 22000 – the international standard for food safety management systems;
• Prerequisite Programmes (PRPs) according to the ISO 22002-x series;
• additional requirements defined by Foundation FSSC.

The combination of these elements creates a comprehensive management system that enables organizations to identify, assess, and control food safety hazards throughout the entire food supply chain.

Main Objective of the Scheme
The primary objective of FSSC 22000 is to ensure that organizations have implemented an effective food safety management system that:

• prevents food safety risks to consumers;
• ensures compliance with legal and regulatory requirements;
• ensures effective control of production and operational processes;
• improves traceability;
• supports continual improvement.

The scheme is applicable to both large international corporations and small and medium-sized enterprises operating within the food sector.

Applicable Sectors
FSSC 22000 can be implemented across various sectors of the food supply chain, including:

• food manufacturing and processing;
• production of food ingredients;
• food packaging manufacturing;
• transport and storage;
• feed production;
• catering and food service activities;
• distribution and logistics;
• biochemical and technological industries related to the food sector.

The broad scope of the scheme allows organizations from different industries and operational activities to apply a unified approach to food safety management.

Key Elements of FSSC 22000
ISO 22000
ISO 22000 is the core standard within the scheme and defines the requirements for a food safety management system. The standard includes:

• hazard analysis;
• HACCP principles;
• risk management;
• communication throughout the food chain;
• nonconformity management;
• internal audits;
• continual improvement.

ISO 22000 follows the High-Level Structure (HLS), which facilitates integration with other management systems such as ISO 9001 and ISO 14001.

Prerequisite Programmes (PRPs)
PRPs represent the basic hygienic and operational conditions necessary for safe food production. These programmes include:

• cleaning and disinfection;
• personal hygiene;
• pest control;
• waste management;
• equipment maintenance;
• allergen control;
• infrastructure and production environment management.

Requirements for PRPs are defined within the ISO 22002 series standards.

Additional FSSC Requirements
Foundation FSSC introduces additional requirements related to:

• food defense;
• food fraud prevention;
• food safety culture;
• environmental monitoring programmes;
• supplier management;
• management of equipment and services.

These requirements extend the scope of the system beyond the traditional HACCP approach.

Benefits of FSSC 22000 Certification
International Recognition
As the scheme is recognized by GFSI, FSSC 22000 is widely accepted by international customers and retail chains worldwide. This facilitates access to new markets and international business partnerships.
Enhanced Food Safety Management
The systematic approach enables organizations to achieve better control over:

• production processes;
• food safety hazards and risks;
• raw materials;
• suppliers;
• critical control points.

This reduces the likelihood of incidents, complaints, and product recalls.
Increased Customer Confidence
Certification demonstrates an organization’s commitment to food safety, quality, and good manufacturing practices. This enhances confidence among customers, business partners, and regulatory authorities.
Improved Organizational Efficiency
Implementation of the system contributes to:

• clearer operational processes;
• structured documentation;
• enhanced traceability;
• clearly defined responsibilities;
• improved internal control.

FSSC 22000 Implementation and Certification Process
The implementation and certification process involves the development and application of a food safety management system in accordance with ISO 22000 requirements, PRPs, and the additional FSSC requirements.
The process typically includes several key stages:

• assessment of the current situation and project planning;
• development and implementation of the required documentation and HACCP system;
• staff training;
• internal audit and management review;
• certification audit conducted by an accredited certification body.

Following successful completion of the certification audit, the organization receives an FSSC 22000 certificate, which is maintained through annual surveillance audits and periodic recertification audits.

FSSC 22000 and Food Safety Culture
In recent years, the scheme has placed increasing emphasis on organizational food safety culture.
This means that organizations are expected not only to establish documented procedures, but also to develop:

• management commitment;
• trained and informed personnel;
• effective internal communication;
• active employee participation;
• behavior focused on food safety.

Food safety culture is considered a key factor for the sustainable operation and long-term effectiveness of the management system.

How CONSEJO Can Support You
CONSEJO provides consulting and professional support for:

• FSSC 22000 implementation;
• transition to FSSC 22000 Version 7;
• development and updating of documentation;
• GAP analysis;
• internal audits;
• team training;
• preparation for certification audits.

FSSC 22000 – International Certification Scheme for Food Safety Management Systems