FSSC 22000 V6 - Certification of food safety management systems - requirements for companies throughout the food chain. The ISO/TS 22002 series covers the practical implementation (preventive programs, PRP).
FSSC 22000 (GFSI approved procedure) is suitable for the implementation of and compliance with food safety in order to meet international food specifications
Accreditation by the Swiss Accreditation Service (SAS)
Recognised internationally for access to markets worldwide
We have been certifying management systems since 1983
Around 7 000 customers trust our Services
Food safety management according to FSSC 22000
The implementation of the specifications of standards (PRP, HACCP, traceability, recall/return, verification/validation, etc.) guarantee food safety requirements.
Target groups of FSSC 22000
Food and food ingredient manufacturers, packaging material manufacturers, feed and pet food manufacturers, catering companies as well as logistics service providers.
Validity period of the certificate
3 years - there is an annual audit to ensure that standards are being maintained and a recertification audit after three years.
Recognition of the SQS certificate
The SQS certificate of conformity with FSSC 22000 Issue V6 (Food) has international recognition.
Responsible for the product and there for you
Lisa Thiele
Do you have any questions about the standard or our service? Would you like to know more about the certification process and the costs? Or may we provide you with a concrete offer for the certification?
We are happy to help you. Our account management team and I, as the product manager, will be happy to forward your questions to our experienced auditors. We want to make it as easy as possible for you to access certified management systems.
Please let us know how we can support you. We look forward to hearing from you!
Kind regards
Lisa Thiele
Food safety and risk prevention
A certified management system according to FSSC 22000 promotes food safety through a systematic risk-based approach. The combination of ISO 22000, industry-specific prerequisite programs (PRPs; ISO/TS 22002 series and/or BSI/PAS 221:2013) and the additional FSSC 22000 requirements ensures that relevant hazards – from microbiological risks to chemical contaminants and foreign body contamination – can be identified at an early stage and effectively controlled. This reduces product recalls, complaints and reputational damage as well as liability risks, while sustainably strengthening the trust of customers, authorities and other stakeholders.
Recognition and market access
FSSC 22000 V6 is a globally recognized standard approved by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). Many wholesalers, retailers, and well-known brands require GFSI-compliant certification to ensure the quality and safety of their products. With an FSSC 22000 certificate, you can demonstrate compliance with these requirements and gain access to important sales markets.
Legal compliance and self-regulation
Preventive programs, HACCP, traceability concepts and recall management are important elements of food safety. Compliance with applicable food law provisions and the implementation of legally required self-monitoring are therefore integral components of a certified management system according to FSSC 22000.
If you feel fit for the standard, you are welcome to use the form above to register for certification. Otherwise, your path to FSSC certification could look like this:
#1 – Building up the system
Implement your management system in accordance with the requirements of the standard so that you are ready for your first external certification audit by SQS.
#2 – Registration for the certification
After registering for certification, you can benefit from a preliminary talk or pre-audit. The pre-audit identifies system-relevant gaps and enables efficient certification.
#3 – Auditing
We first review your system documentation, assess your readiness for certification and draw up a detailed audit plan together with you. Our auditors then visit your company to assess the relevant test objects and the maturity degree of the management system and compile a report.
#4 – Certificate with a three-year validity
If the report is positive, you receive the certificate in digital and printed form. You can communicate it internally and externally for three years. Annual audits ensure compliance with the standard and enable continuous improvements. A comprehensive recertification takes place after three years.
What is the difference between FSSC 22000 and ISO 22000?
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FSSC 22000 is based on ISO 22000, supplemented by mandatory PRP requirements and additional supplementary FSSC requirements. Unlike ISO 22000, FSSC 22000 is recognised by GFSI, an initiative by major wholesalers to promote food safety.
Is FSSC 22000 suitable for all parts of the food chain?
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Yes, FSSC 22000 can be applied in virtually all areas of the food chain – from primary production in agriculture to food manufacturing, feed production, packaging and catering, right through to transport, storage and trade. There are specific technical requirements for each area, known as PRP standards or preventive programs.
How long does it take to obtain an FSSC-22000 certificate?
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It depends on factors such as management commitment, company size, process complexity, available resources, and the development level of the management system. Realistically, preparation work will take at least six months to a year.
How often does an FSSC-22000 certificate need ob e renewed?
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An FSSC 22000 certificate is valid for three years. A surveillance audit is conducted each year during this period. After three years, a recertification audit is required to maintain the certification.
What are the costs associated with an FSSC-22000 certification?
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Costs vary depending on the size of the company, number of sites and production volume. We would be happy to provide you with a customized offer tailored to your needs.
Does SQS also offer consultancy services?
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No, our core competence is certification. Apart from standard training courses, SQS, as an accredited service provider, is not permitted to offer consultancy services.
Can FSSC 22000 be combined with other management systems?
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Yes, companies certified to ISO 9001 integrate food safety requirements into their existing management system (integrated management system or IMS). This can create synergies and reduce overall costs.
What happens if a company does not fulfil the requirements of FSSC 22000?
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If non-conformities are identified during an audit, the company must implement corrective actions within a specified deadline. The certificate can only be issued or maintained once all non-conformities have been resolved.
How can the validity of an FSSC 22000 certificate be verified?
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Each certificate is given an unique registration number and can be accessed in the FSSC database. Customers and authorities can verify its validity there.
What is the advantage of a GFSI-recognized certification?
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The GFSI (Global Food Safety Initiative) harmonises different food safety standards worldwide. GFSI-recognised certification such as FSSC 22000 is required by many trade organisations and brand manufacturers. It increases market access and can help reduce supplier audits.
How does an FSSC 22000 certified management system contribute to a company’s image?
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An FSSC 22000 certificate proves that a company consistently addresses food safety issues and adheres to generally accepted and internationally recognised hygiene rules. This creates confidence among customers, suppliers and authorities and strengthens the company's competitive position.