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Is GMP Included in FSSC 22000

By February 27, 2025No Comments

Is GMP Included in FSSC 22000?

Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) are essential for ensuring food safety and hygiene in food production. Many businesses wonder whether GMP is part of the FSSC 22000 certification framework. The short answer is yes, but it is integrated as part of the Prerequisite Programs (PRPs) required by FSSC 22000.

To better understand the relationship between GMP and FSSC 22000, let’s break it down into key points.

Understanding GMP in FSSC 22000

1. What is GMP?

  • A set of guidelines ensuring food is consistently produced and controlled under hygienic conditions.
  • Covers aspects such as personnel hygiene, facility maintenance, cleaning, and pest control.
  • Helps prevent contamination and ensures product quality and safety.

2. What is FSSC 22000?

  • A globally recognized food safety certification scheme based on ISO 22000.
  • Integrates ISO/TS 22002-x standards for sector-specific Prerequisite Programs (PRPs).
  • Includes additional FSSC-specific requirements to ensure food safety and regulatory compliance.

3. How GMP is Incorporated in FSSC 22000?

  • GMP principles are embedded in Prerequisite Programs (PRPs) required for FSSC 22000.
  • PRPs cover hygiene, sanitation, equipment maintenance, and operational control.
  • Compliance with GMP is necessary to meet the FSMS (Food Safety Management System) requirements.

4. Key GMP Elements Included in FSSC 22000

  • Hygiene and Sanitation: Ensuring clean work environments and proper food handling.
  • Personnel Practices: Employee hygiene, health monitoring, and training.
  • Pest Control: Preventing contamination from insects and rodents.
  • Facility and Equipment Maintenance: Keeping production areas and equipment in good condition.
  • Traceability and Recall Procedures: Ensuring the ability to track and recall products if needed.

5. Is GMP Compliance Enough for FSSC 22000 Certification?

  • GMP alone does not grant FSSC 22000 certification.
  • FSSC 22000 requires a complete Food Safety Management System (FSMS) that includes Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), risk assessment, and continuous improvement.
  • Companies must implement all ISO 22000 requirements alongside GMP-based PRPs.

6. Benefits of GMP in FSSC 22000

  • Ensures Food Safety: Helps control contamination and maintain product integrity.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Meets global and local food safety regulations.
  • Improves Operational Efficiency: Reduces risks of recalls, rework, and non-conformities.
  • Enhances Market Access: Increases trust among customers and stakeholders.

Conclusion

GMP is a fundamental part of FSSC 22000, embedded within the Prerequisite Programs (PRPs). However, FSSC 22000 extends beyond GMP by incorporating ISO 22000 standards, HACCP, and risk-based management to ensure comprehensive food safety compliance.

Looking to achieve FSSC 22000 certification? Contact us today for expert guidance on GMP implementation and food safety compliance!

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