What is the Current Version of FSSC 22000?
FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification) is a globally recognized certification scheme for food safety management systems. It is based on ISO 22000 and includes additional requirements to ensure food safety across the supply chain.
The latest version of FSSC 22000 is Version 6, which was released in April 2023. This update brings significant changes to enhance food safety management and align with international best practices.
Key Updates in FSSC 22000 Version 6
1. Integration of ISO 22003-1:2022 Requirements
- Aligns with the latest international standards for food safety certification.
- Ensures consistency in food safety auditing and certification processes.
2. Strengthened Focus on UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Encourages measures to reduce food loss and waste.
- Promotes sustainability initiatives within the food industry.
3. Enhanced Food Safety and Quality Culture
- Emphasizes the development of a strong food safety culture.
- Requires leadership commitment to food safety practices.
4. New Requirements for Quality Control and Equipment Management
- Introduces stricter product quality controls.
- Mandates proper maintenance of equipment to prevent contamination.
5. Revised Product Categories
- Adjusts food chain categories for better alignment with industry practices.
- Expands the scope to include trading and brokerage activities.
6. Updated Audit Duration Calculation
- Modifies methods for determining audit durations.
- Ensures a more comprehensive evaluation of food safety systems.
Transition Timeline
To ensure a smooth transition, businesses must adhere to the following timeline:
- April 1, 2024 – Audits against Version 6 commence.
- March 31, 2025 – All organizations must complete their Version 6 upgrade audit.
What Should Businesses Do?
To stay compliant with FSSC 22000 Version 6, businesses should:
✔ Review the updated requirements and assess gaps in their current system.
✔ Train employees on new standards and expectations.
✔ Implement necessary changes, such as sustainability initiatives and equipment maintenance improvements.
✔ Schedule an upgrade audit before the deadline to avoid certification disruptions.
Conclusion
FSSC 22000 Version 6 is a crucial step toward enhancing global food safety and aligning with sustainability goals. Businesses must take proactive steps to transition to the new version before the March 2025 deadline to maintain compliance and ensure food safety excellence.
Are you ready for FSSC 22000 Version 6? Contact us today to get expert guidance on your certification journey!