FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification) is a GFSI‑recognized certification scheme for food safety management systems. It combines ISO 22000, Prerequisite Programs (PRPs), and FSSC Additional Requirements to ensure safe food production and supply.
The FSSC 22000 Scheme is managed by Foundation FSSC and governed by an independent Board of Stakeholders comprising representatives from sectors across the food industry. Compliance is monitored by the FSSC Integrity Program, Certification Bodies, and Accreditation bodies. Together with partners, the scheme ensures a positive impact on the consumer goods industry worldwide.
Version 6, published in April 2023, introduced important updates focusing on food safety culture, equipment management, quality control, sustainability, and additional GFSI benchmarking requirements.
The scheme applies to food manufacturing, animal feed, catering, packaging, storage and distribution, retail, and transport.
Requirements for FSSC 22000 V6 Third‑Party Certification
FSSC 22000 consists of three core components:
1. ISO 22000:2018 – Food Safety Management System (FSMS)
Covers the standard structure for FSMS, including:
- Context of the organization
- Leadership and planning
- Support and operations
- Performance evaluation
- Continual improvement
2. Prerequisite Programs (PRPs) – Sector Specific
Examples include:
- ISO/TS 22002‑1 for food manufacturing
- ISO/TS 22002‑4 for packaging
- ISO/TS 22002‑6 for retail
- NEN/NTA 8059 for transport and storage
These PRPs ensure hygiene, pest control, infrastructure, and operational conditions are met.
3. FSSC Additional Requirements (Version 6)
Version 6 includes new and existing requirements such as:
- Fodefencense and food fraud mitigation
- Management of allergens
- Product labelling and customer focus
- Equipment management (new in v6)
- Food safety and quality culture (strengthened in v6)
- Environmental monitoring
- Quality control and assurance
- Handling of withdrawal and recall procedures
Steps for Third‑Party Certification
- Gap analysis (optional)
- Implement ISO 22000, PRPs, and additional FSSC requirements
- Internal audits and management review
- Select an accredited certification body
- Stage 1 audit – Document and readiness review
- Stage 2 audit – Implementation and effectiveness assessment
- Certification decision by the certification body
- Annual surveillance audits
- Recertification every 3 years
Benefits of FSSC 22000 V6 Third‑Party Certification
- GFSI Recognition – Accepted by major global food brands and retailers; facilitates international trade and supplier approval.
- Comprehensive Food Safety Assurance – Covers food safety risks across the supply chain; incorporates ISO 22000 + PRPs + Additional Requirements.
- Risk‑Based Management System – Based on ISO structure and risk assessment principles (HACCP & ISO risk‑based thinking).
- Continual Improvement and Compliance – Drives food safety culture and performance improvement; ensures compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
- Market Access and Competitive Advantage – Enhances brand credibility and stakeholder trust; opens new markets and business opportunities.
- Alignment with Other Management Systems – Easily integrated with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, etc.
- Confidence for Stakeholders – Demonstrates transparent, certified food safety practices; ensures product consistency and consumer protection.
Ready to Get Certified?
Contact S3iWorld today to begin your journey toward FSSC 22000 V6 certification and demonstrate your commitment to food safety excellence.