FSSC 22000: Food Safety System Certification 22000

FSSC 22000 provides a framework for effectively managing food safety responsibilities. It is designed for organizations in the food chain that process or manufacture food products.

The certification is recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), and encompasses the ISO 22000 standard for food safety management systems, ISO/TS 22002-1 standards for prerequisite programs (PRPs), and additional FSSC-specific requirements, such as those focused on food fraud prevention, food defense, and allergen management.

FSSC 22000 certification is intended for any organization in the food supply chain that wants to demonstrate robust food safety management and meet global market expectations, especially from retailers, manufacturers, and regulators.

The certification is not legally mandatory, but is often required when organizations aim to enter global supply chains, meet customer and retailer requirements, and boost risk management and credibility.

To earn an FSSC 22000 certification, organizations must take a three-pronged approach, which includes implementing:

• ISO 22000. A globally recognized food safety management system standard that defines how an organization must identify, evaluate, and control food safety hazards through a structured, risk-based approach
• Any necessary PRPs. Basic operational and environmental conditions necessary for safe food production. These are tailored to industry sectors – such as manufacturing or packaging — and outlined in the ISO/TS 22002-x series’ standards
• FSSC Scheme requirements. Additional requirements mandated by the FSSC, including food fraud prevention, allergen management, and regulatory compliance, supported by interpretation articles and Board of Stakeholders decisions for consistent application

All the requirements for each program listed above are available on the FSSC’s website. After they are implemented, organizations must undergo an audit by an FSSC-approved certification body. After a successful audit, they will earn an FSSC 22000 certification.

FSSC 22000-certified organizations are subject to annual surveillance audits. The certification itself is valid for three years, after which point there is a recertification audit.

An FSSC 22000 certification offers several benefits to employees and their organizations. Some key advantages include the following.

Earning an FSSC 22000 certification may pose several challenges to employees and organizations. They include the following.

Here are a few tips for preparing for an FSSC 22000 certification:

• Read the FSSC 22000 FAQ document
• Familiarize yourself with the FSSC 22000 Scheme documents
• Read our ISO 22000 certification guide

For more information and guidance on CNA certification, you can refer to the following resources:

FSSC. The FSSC’s website should be the first stop for organizations seeking FSSC 22000 certification. There, you can find resources, support, and full guidelines for the certification program.

ISO 22000. Because FSSC 22000 certification requires ISO 22000 certification, organizations should almost familiarize themselves with the requirements on ISO’s website. You can also use our ISO 22000 certification guide to help you through the process

ISO/TS. ISO/TS 22002-x outlines the PRPs needed for FSSC 22000 certification. Organizations should review the appropriate sector-specific standard, such as the PRP for food manufacturing linked here.

AG5 stores all certifications in the cloud, providing all authorized personnel with access to the right version of approved certifications. This helps you easily keep track of all data and documentation related to FSSC 22000 certifications across your organization.

Using AG5’s skills management software, you can monitor the status of any type of certification that is relevant to your workforce, leveraging intuitive dashboards that provide you with a clear understanding of exactly what is needed to keep your employees skilled and safe.

• FSSC
• ISO