What is FSSC 22000 Certification?

FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification 22000) is a globally recognized certification scheme for food safety management systems, fully recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). It provides a framework for effectively managing food safety responsibilities and demonstrates that a company has robust food safety management systems in place.

#### Key Features of FSSC 22000

1. **Comprehensive Coverage**:
– FSSC 22000 combines ISO 22000, sector-specific Pre-Requisite Programs (PRPs), and additional FSSC 22000 requirements to provide a comprehensive food safety management system.

2. **ISO 22000**:
– Provides a framework for a food safety management system, integrating the principles of HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points) with internationally recognized standards for food safety.

3. **Pre-Requisite Programs (PRPs)**:
– Industry-specific PRPs such as ISO/TS 22002-1 (Food Manufacturing), ISO/TS 22002-2 (Catering), and others that address fundamental conditions and activities necessary to maintain a hygienic environment.

4. **Additional Requirements**:
– Includes specifications for services, supervised management of personnel, and food defense.

5. **Integration with Other Standards**:
– Can be integrated with other management systems like ISO 9001 for quality management and ISO 14001 for environmental management.

#### Benefits of FSSC 22000 Certification

1. **Global Recognition**:
– Recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), making it widely accepted by food manufacturers, retailers, and suppliers around the world.

2. **Enhanced Food Safety**:
– Provides a structured approach to identifying and controlling food safety hazards, ensuring safe food production and handling processes.

3. **Regulatory Compliance**:
– Helps organizations comply with legal and regulatory food safety requirements, reducing the risk of legal issues and recalls.

4. **Market Access**:
– Certification can open doors to new markets and customers, as many retailers and buyers require suppliers to have GFSI-recognized certification.

5. **Operational Efficiency**:
– Streamlined processes and improved efficiency through a systematic approach to food safety management.

6. **Risk Management**:
– Proactively identifies and mitigates food safety risks, ensuring the safety and integrity of food products.

### How to Obtain FSSC 22000 Certification

1. **Gap Analysis**:
– Conduct a gap analysis to compare current food safety practices against FSSC 22000 requirements.

2. **Develop and Implement**:
– Develop and implement a food safety management system that meets the requirements of ISO 22000, relevant PRPs, and additional FSSC 22000 requirements.

3. **Internal Audit**:
– Conduct internal audits to ensure the system is effectively implemented and identify areas for improvement.

4. **Select a Certification Body**:
– Choose an accredited certification body to conduct the certification audit.

5. **Certification Audit**:
– Undergo a certification audit, which includes a stage 1 (documentation review) and stage 2 (on-site) audit to verify compliance with FSSC 22000 requirements.

6. **Address Non-Conformities**:
– If any non-conformities are identified, address them promptly and effectively.

7. **Certification**:
– Upon successful completion of the audit, the certification body will issue the FSSC 22000 certificate.

8. **Ongoing Surveillance**:
– Maintain certification through regular surveillance audits and continuous improvement of the food safety management system.

### How Eurotech Certification Can Help

At Eurotech Certification, we offer comprehensive services to assist with obtaining and maintaining FSSC 22000 certification:

– **Gap Analysis and Consultation**: Identify areas for improvement and develop a plan to meet FSSC 22000 standards.
– **Training and Support**: Provide training for your team on FSSC 22000 requirements and best practices.
– **Internal Audits**: Conduct internal audits to ensure your system is ready for the certification audit.
– **Certification Audit**: Facilitate the certification audit process with an accredited body.
– **Ongoing Support**: Offer continuous support and guidance to maintain compliance and improve your food safety management system.

### Contact Us

Ready to achieve FSSC 22000 certification and enhance your food safety standards? Contact Eurotech Certification today to learn more about our services and how we can support your certification journey.