FSSC 22000 Consultant | Certify Consulting

GFSI-Recognized Scheme

What is FSSC 22000?

Food Safety System Certification 22000 (FSSC 22000) is a GFSI-recognized certification scheme for food safety management systems. It combines the robust framework of ISO 22000 with sector-specific prerequisite programs (ISO/TS 22002-x) and additional FSSC requirements to create a comprehensive food safety certification.

FSSC 22000 is accepted by major global food companies and retailers as evidence of a rigorous, internationally benchmarked food safety system. Its ISO-based foundation makes it particularly attractive for companies already operating within an ISO management system framework.

The scheme covers food manufacturing, food packaging, animal feed production, transport and storage, and catering — making it one of the most versatile GFSI-recognized certifications available.

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Three Pillars of FSSC 22000

FSSC 22000 Components

FSSC 22000 is built on three integrated components that together form a comprehensive food safety management system.

ISO 22000

The food safety management system standard. Provides the management framework including organizational context, leadership, planning, support, operation (including HACCP), performance evaluation, and improvement.

Management System Foundation

ISO/TS 22002-1

Prerequisite programs for food manufacturing. Covers building and facility design, utilities, waste disposal, equipment suitability, purchased materials, cross-contamination prevention, cleaning and sanitizing, pest control, personnel hygiene, and more.

Prerequisite Programs

Additional FSSC Requirements

FSSC-specific additions including management of services, product labeling, food defense plans, food fraud mitigation, logo use requirements, and management of allergens — requirements that go beyond ISO 22000 alone.

FSSC Additions

Our Proven Process

Our FSSC 22000 Process

A structured approach that builds your food safety management system from the ground up and prepares you for a successful certification audit.

1

Gap Assessment

Comprehensive evaluation of your current food safety system against FSSC 22000 requirements. We identify gaps and build a prioritized action plan.

2

ISO 22000 Foundation

Build or enhance your food safety management system to meet ISO 22000 requirements — organizational context, leadership commitment, planning, and operational controls.

3

Prerequisite Program Development

Develop and document prerequisite programs per ISO/TS 22002-1 — facility design, equipment, cleaning, pest control, personnel hygiene, and allergen management.

4

HACCP Plan

Comprehensive hazard analysis and HACCP plan development following the 7 HACCP principles — the operational core of your FSSC 22000 food safety system.

5

Food Defense & Food Fraud Plans

Vulnerability assessments and mitigation strategies for intentional adulteration (food defense) and economically motivated adulteration (food fraud).

6

Documentation & Implementation

Complete documentation system including policies, procedures, work instructions, and records. Hands-on support to implement your system across all operations.

7

Internal Audits

Full internal audit program including auditor training, audit execution, and corrective action follow-up. Ensures your system is effective before the certification audit.

8

Certification Audit Support

Pre-audit readiness review, certification body selection guidance, and on-site support during your Stage 1 and Stage 2 FSSC 22000 certification audits.

Scheme Comparison

FSSC 22000 vs Other Schemes

Understanding how FSSC 22000 compares to other GFSI-recognized food safety schemes helps you make the right choice for your business.

FSSC 22000 vs SQF

SQF is popular in North America and includes quality management elements. FSSC 22000 has a stronger international presence and ISO-based foundation, making it ideal for companies already working within the ISO ecosystem.

FSSC 22000 vs BRC/BRCGS

BRC (BRCGS) is widely required for the UK and European retail markets. FSSC 22000 offers broader global acceptance and a management system approach rather than BRC's prescriptive checklist format.

FSSC 22000 vs ISO 22000

ISO 22000 alone is not GFSI-recognized. FSSC 22000 builds on ISO 22000 by adding prerequisite program requirements and additional elements like food defense and food fraud, earning GFSI recognition.

Why Choose FSSC 22000?

ISO-based foundation — integrates seamlessly with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and other ISO management systems
Global recognition — accepted by major food companies and retailers worldwide
Certification body accreditation — audits are conducted by accredited certification bodies, ensuring consistency and credibility
Comprehensive coverage — addresses food safety, food defense, food fraud, and allergen management in one integrated system

Common Questions

FSSC 22000 FAQs

What is the difference between FSSC 22000 and ISO 22000?

ISO 22000 is an international food safety management system standard, but it is not GFSI-recognized on its own. FSSC 22000 builds on ISO 22000 by adding sector-specific prerequisite programs (ISO/TS 22002-x) and additional FSSC requirements including food defense, food fraud prevention, and management of services. FSSC 22000 is GFSI-recognized, making it accepted by major retailers and food companies worldwide.

Is FSSC 22000 GFSI recognized?

Yes. FSSC 22000 is fully recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). This means certification to FSSC 22000 satisfies the food safety certification requirements of major retailers and food companies that mandate GFSI-recognized certification from their suppliers.

How long does FSSC 22000 certification take?

FSSC 22000 certification typically takes 6 to 12 months from initial gap assessment to successful certification audit. The timeline depends on your current food safety system maturity, whether you already have ISO 22000 or HACCP in place, the size and complexity of your operations, and the resources available for implementation.

Can I upgrade from ISO 22000 to FSSC 22000?

Yes. If you already hold ISO 22000 certification, upgrading to FSSC 22000 is a streamlined process. You already have the food safety management system foundation in place. The upgrade involves implementing the additional prerequisite program requirements (ISO/TS 22002-1), food defense and food fraud plans, and the additional FSSC 22000 requirements. This typically takes 3 to 6 months.

Ready to Get FSSC 22000 Certified?

Schedule a free 30-minute consultation. We'll assess your current food safety system, discuss the FSSC 22000 certification path, and outline a clear plan — no obligation.

Schedule Free Consultation Call 858-240-4353

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