How Many Food Chain Categories Are There in FSSC 22000?

FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification) is a globally recognized certification scheme for food safety management. It covers the entire food supply chain, ensuring food safety at every stage. In FSSC 22000, there are 16 food chain categories, each representing different sectors involved in food production and supply.

16 Food Chain Categories in FSSC 22000

1. Farming (Category A)

• A1: Farming of animals (e.g., dairy, poultry, fish, beef, pork)
• A2: Farming of plants (e.g., grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts)

2. Food Manufacturing (Category C)

• C1: Processing of perishable animal products (e.g., meat, fish, dairy)
• C2: Processing of perishable plant products (e.g., fresh-cut vegetables, juices)
• C3: Processing of perishable mixed products (e.g., ready-to-eat meals)
• C4: Processing of ambient stable products (e.g., canned goods, snacks, confectionery)

3. Animal Feed Production (Category D)

• D1: Production of animal feed (e.g., livestock and poultry feed)
• D2: Production of pet food (e.g., dry kibble, wet pet food, treats)

4. Catering (Category E)

• Covers food preparation and service in restaurants, hotels, hospitals, schools, etc.

5. Retail & Wholesale (Category F)

• Includes supermarkets, food distributors, and wholesale food supply.

6. Transport & Storage (Category G)

• G1: Storage and distribution (e.g., refrigerated warehouses, logistics providers)
• G2: Transport and distribution (e.g., trucking, shipping, air freight of food products)

7. Auxiliary Services (Category I)

• Includes cleaning and sanitation services related to food safety.

8. Packaging Material Manufacturing (Category K)

• Covers production of food packaging materials (e.g., plastic, glass, metal, paper packaging).

9. Bio-chemical Manufacturing (Category L)

• Covers production of food-related additives, vitamins, enzymes, and processing aids.

10. Equipment Manufacturing (Category M)

• Includes machinery and equipment used in food production and processing.

Conclusion: Comprehensive Food Safety Coverage

FSSC 22000’s 16 food chain categories ensure food safety from farm to fork. Businesses in any of these categories can obtain certification to improve food safety management, regulatory compliance, and consumer trust.

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