Food Safety System Certification
FSSC refers to the Food Safety System Certification, and it is a certification scheme for food safety management systems. FSSC 22000 is one of the leading global standards recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). It provides a framework for food manufacturers to implement and maintain effective food safety management systems, ensuring the production of safe and high-quality food products.
FSSC 22000 integrates the ISO 22000 standard (Food Safety Management Systems requirements) with additional requirements specific to the food industry. The full title of the standard is “FSSC 22000: Food Safety System Certification 22000.
Key Components and Elements of FSSC 22000 include:
- ISO 22000 Requirements: FSSC 22000 incorporates the ISO 22000 standard, which outlines general requirements for a food safety management system.
- Additional Requirements: FSSC 22000 includes specific requirements for the food industry, addressing areas such as prerequisite programs, hazard analysis, food safety plan, and validation of control measures.
- Prerequisite Programs: The standard places emphasis on the implementation of prerequisite programs (PRPs) to control basic conditions and activities necessary for maintaining a hygienic environment.
- Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP): FSSC 22000 requires the identification and analysis of hazards in the food production process and the implementation of HACCP principles to control and monitor these hazards.
- Management Commitment: Organizations seeking FSSC 22000 certification must demonstrate leadership commitment to food safety, allocate necessary resources, and establish a food safety policy.
- Communication: Effective communication throughout the organization and with relevant stakeholders regarding food safety issues is a key element.
- Internal Audits and Management Review: Regular internal audits and management reviews are required to assess the performance of the food safety management system and identify opportunities for improvement.
FSSC 22000 is widely accepted by food manufacturers, processors, and suppliers globally. Certification to FSSC 22000 is often sought by companies in the food industry to demonstrate their commitment to producing safe and high-quality food products. Third-party certification bodies conduct audits to assess compliance with FSSC 22000 requirements, and successful certification provides a level of assurance to customers and consumers about the safety and quality of the food products.