FSSC 22000 is a Food Safety Management Certification Scheme, managed by Foundation FSSC 22000 and governed by an independent Board of Stakeholders which consists of representatives from several sectors in the food industry. FSSC 22000 is used to control food safety risks. The Food Safety Certification requirements provide a rigorous system to manage food safety risks and provide safe products for use by companies in the food industry.

FSSC 22000 is a Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) recognized food safety certification. This allows your customers to have confidence in your food safety program and know that you have a rigorous food safety system in place. FSSC 22000 focuses on assuring food safety by defining, evaluating and controlling risks and hazards during processing, manufacturing, packaging, storage, transportation, distribution, handling or offering for sale or supply in any sector of the food chain.

The scheme is intended for the compliance of food safety management systems for the following scopes and product categories:

• Farming for meat, milk, eggs and honey (excluding trapping, hunting and fishing).
• Manufacturing of food products such as perishable animal or plant products, ambient stable products and (bio)chemicals.
• Manufacturing of food packaging and packaging material (for example, materials that have direct or indirect contact with the food).
• Manufacturing of food and feed for animals, such as pet food, animal feed and fish feed.
• Transport and storage services, including those across the food supply chain.
• Catering preparations, storage and, where appropriate, the delivery of food for consumption, at the place of preparation or at a satellite unit.
• Retail and wholesale provision of finished food products to a customer (for example retail outlets and wholesalers).

What’s the benefit of FSSC 22000?

FSSC 22000 guides and gives food operators accurate tools to help them implement appropriate assessments, procedures and actions to assure food safety and legislation compliance.

The benefits of correct implementation of FSSC 22000 includes:

• Becoming GFSI approved (this approval is required for major retailers worldwide).
• Development of your own food safety management system, including compliance with the requirements stipulated in FSCC 22000.
• Improved management and internal communication.
• Reduced costs caused by withdrawals and/or recalls.
• Improved reputation and brand loyalty.

A greater sense of confidence in disclosures through increased recognition, trust and credibility.