FSSC 22000, or Food Safety System Certification 22000

 FSSC 22000, or Food Safety System Certification 22000, is a globally recognized food safety management system (FSMS) certification scheme. It provides a framework for ensuring the safety and quality of food products throughout the entire supply chain. FSSC 22000 is based on internationally recognized standards and is designed to help food organizations meet regulatory and customer requirements.

Key components of FSSC 22000 include:

1.  ISO 22000 : FSSC 22000 is built upon the foundation of ISO 22000, which is an international standard for food safety management systems. ISO 22000 sets out the requirements for an organization to establish, implement, maintain, and continually improve a food safety management system.

2.  Prerequisite Programs (PRPs) : FSSC 22000 includes prerequisites such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Good Hygiene Practices (GHP), and other basic food safety requirements. These programs are essential for creating a safe food production environment.

3.  HACCP Principles : Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) principles are integral to FSSC 22000. This involves identifying and controlling potential hazards throughout the food production process.

4.  ISO/TS 22002-1 : This technical specification, a part of the FSSC 22000 scheme, provides specific requirements for PRPs in food manufacturing. It outlines detailed criteria for establishing and maintaining these programs.

5.  ISO/TS 22002-4 : This technical specification pertains to the PRPs for food packaging manufacturing.

6.  ISO/TS 22002-3 : This technical specification covers the PRPs for food warehousing.

7.  ISO/TS 22002-5 : This technical specification is for PRPs in the manufacture of animal food.

8.  Certification Process : Achieving FSSC 22000 certification involves a comprehensive audit process by a third-party certification body. The certification process assesses an organization's food safety management system against the FSSC 22000 standard's requirements.

9.  Continual Improvement : FSSC 22000 emphasizes the need for continual improvement in food safety management. This includes ongoing monitoring, corrective actions, and regular reviews to ensure that food safety standards are met.

FSSC 22000 is recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), which means that it meets the rigorous requirements and expectations of major global retailers and food manufacturers. This recognition makes FSSC 22000 a valuable certification for food companies seeking to demonstrate their commitment to food safety and meet the demands of international markets.

FSSC 22000 certification is commonly sought by food processors, manufacturers, distributors, and packaging companies to ensure that their food products meet high food safety and quality standards, thereby reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses and maintaining consumer trust.