What Are the Key Differences Between ISO 22000:2018 and the Previous Version?

If your business is certified to ISO 22000, you may be wondering what changed when the standard was updated in 2018.

The ISO 22000:2018 revision introduced a new structure and several key concepts designed to align food safety with modern management systems. Companies still working with the older version must understand these differences to stay compliant and competitive.

✅ Key Differences Between ISO 22000:2018 and ISO 22000:2005

• High-Level Structure (Annex SL)

  • 2018 version adopts Annex SL, aligning with other ISO standards like ISO 9001 & ISO 14001.

  • Easier integration into existing management systems.

  • Improves consistency across departments.

• Risk-Based Thinking

  • Previous version focused mainly on operational risk (HACCP principles).

  • ISO 22000:2018 introduces two levels of risk:

    • Organizational risk (strategic, business-related).

    • Operational risk (food safety hazards and CCPs).

  • Encourages proactive, not just reactive, risk management.

• Context of the Organization

  • New requirement to analyze internal and external issues affecting food safety.

  • Includes market trends, regulatory changes, and customer expectations.

  • Aligns food safety strategy with business environment.

• Interested Parties

  • 2018 version requires identifying stakeholders (customers, suppliers, regulators).

  • Ensures their needs and expectations are considered in the FSMS.

• Stronger Emphasis on Leadership

  • Top management must show active involvement in food safety.

  • Accountability is no longer only on the Quality or HACCP team.

  • Leadership must ensure resources, communication, and culture are in place.

• Process Approach + PDCA Cycle (Two Levels)

  • ISO 22000:2018 applies the Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle on two levels:

    • Management system level (business strategy).

    • Operational level (HACCP plan and food safety controls).

  • Promotes continuous improvement at every stage.

• Stronger Communication Requirements

  • Internal communication across departments formalized.

  • External communication with authorities, customers, and suppliers must be defined.

  • Builds trust and reduces miscommunication in food safety.

• Documented Information

  • Replaces “documents and records” terminology from the old version.

  • Offers flexibility in using digital systems or other formats.

  • Ensures clarity in recordkeeping and traceability.

• Operational Planning and Control

  • More detailed approach to PRPs (Prerequisite Programs), CCPs (Critical Control Points), and OPRPs (Operational Prerequisite Programs).

  • Better alignment with Codex HACCP.

📊 Benefits of ISO 22000:2018 Over the Previous Version

• Easier integration with other ISO standards (9001, 45001, 14001).

• Clearer risk management framework for both business and food safety.

• Stronger leadership accountability and culture of food safety.

• Improved stakeholder engagement and communication.

• More robust structure for continuous improvement.

• Flexible documentation approach (not just paperwork-heavy).

✅ What Businesses Should Do Now

• Review your current FSMS and identify gaps vs. ISO 22000:2018.

• Conduct management awareness sessions to strengthen leadership involvement.

• Update risk assessment methodology to include organizational risk.

• Re-train staff on new terminology, PDCA cycles, and documentation requirements.

• Align HACCP and PRP processes with updated clauses.

• Prepare for re-certification audits under the new version.

Final Takeaway

👉 The move from ISO 22000:2005 to ISO 22000:2018 is more than a cosmetic change.
It represents a shift toward risk-based thinking, stronger leadership, and alignment with global ISO structures.

For food businesses, adopting ISO 22000:2018 ensures compliance, global recognition, and a stronger food safety culture.