In the dynamic landscape of the food industry, ensuring the safety and quality of food products is paramount. To achieve this goal, various international standards have been established to guide organizations in developing and implementing effective food safety management systems. Two prominent standards in this domain are ISO 22000:2018 and FSSC 22000 v6.
This article explores the relationship between these standards, highlighting their synergies and distinctive features.
ISO 22000:2018 is an international standard developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). It provides a comprehensive framework for a food safety management system (FSMS) and is applicable to all organizations involved in the food chain. The primary objective of ISO 22000 is to ensure food safety by identifying and controlling food safety hazards at every stage of the supply chain.
FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification) is a certification scheme recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). FSSC 22000 integrates ISO 22000:2018 and adds specific requirements to meet the GFSI benchmarking criteria. FSSC 22000 v6 is the latest version, introduced to align with ISO 22000:2018 and enhance its effectiveness in ensuring food safety.
The relationship between ISO 22000:2018 and FSSC 22000 v6 is symbiotic, with each standard complementing the other to create a robust food safety management system. Organizations certified under FSSC 22000 v6 not only meet the global benchmark set by GFSI but also adhere to the foundational principles outlined in ISO 22000.
ISO 22000:2018 and FSSC 22000 v6 together create a powerful framework for ensuring food safety throughout the supply chain. While ISO 22000 sets the foundation, FSSC 22000 v6 extends and enhances the system, aligning with global expectations and providing additional tools for risk management.
By embracing both standards, organizations can not only achieve compliance with international requirements but also strengthen their overall food safety management systems, instilling confidence in consumers and stakeholders alike.