What is the Process of FSSC 22000 Certification?



The process of obtaining FSSC 22000 certification involves several key steps, ensuring that an organization meets the requirements for a robust food safety management system. Here’s a detailed outline of the process:


1. Understanding the Requirements

Familiarize with Standards:


ISO 22000: Understand the core requirements of ISO 22000, which includes the framework for a food safety management system.

Prerequisite Programs (PRPs): Identify the applicable PRPs for your sector, such as ISO/TS 22002-1 for food manufacturing.

FSSC 22000 Additional Requirements: Review any additional requirements specific to the FSSC 22000 scheme.

2. Gap Analysis

Conduct a Gap Analysis:

Assess your current food safety management system against the FSSC 22000 requirements to identify gaps and areas for improvement.

3. Planning and Implementation

Develop an Implementation Plan:

Create a detailed plan to address the gaps identified during the analysis. This should include timelines, resources needed, and responsibilities.

Implement the System:

Develop and implement the necessary processes, procedures, and controls to meet the FSSC 22000 standards.

Train employees on the new or updated procedures and their roles in maintaining the food safety management system.

4. Documentation

Document the System:


Ensure that all procedures, processes, and controls are thoroughly documented. This includes creating a food safety policy, hazard analysis, and critical control points (HACCP) plans, and records of training and internal audits.

5. Internal Audits

Conduct Internal Audits:


Perform internal audits to verify that the system is implemented correctly and is effective. This helps identify any issues before the external audit.

Management Review:


Conduct a management review meeting to evaluate the performance of the food safety management system and make necessary adjustments.

6. Select a Certification Body

Choose an Accredited Certification Body:


Select a recognized and accredited certification body to conduct the FSSC 22000 audit. Ensure they have experience in your industry sector.

7. Stage 1 Audit (Document Review)

Pre-Audit Assessment:


The certification body conducts a Stage 1 audit, which involves a review of your documentation to ensure it meets FSSC 22000 requirements. This audit may be conducted on-site or off-site.

The purpose is to verify that all necessary documentation is in place and to identify any areas that need improvement before the full certification audit.

8. Stage 2 Audit (On-Site Audit)

On-Site Assessment:


The certification body conducts a thorough on-site audit (Stage 2) to verify that your food safety management system is effectively implemented and complies with FSSC 22000 requirements.

The audit includes a review of records, interviews with employees, and observation of practices.

9. Address Non-Conformities

Corrective Actions:


If the auditors identify any non-conformities, you will need to implement corrective actions within a specified timeframe. Provide evidence of the corrections to the certification body.

10. Certification Decision

Certification Approval:


Once all non-conformities are addressed, the certification body reviews the audit findings and decides whether to grant certification.

If successful, you will receive the FSSC 22000 certificate.

11. Surveillance Audits

Ongoing Compliance:


The certification body conducts periodic surveillance audits, typically annually, to ensure continued compliance with FSSC 22000 standards.

These audits are less comprehensive than the initial certification audit but are crucial for maintaining certification.

12. Recertification Audit

Renewal:


Every three years, a more comprehensive recertification audit is conducted to renew the certification, ensuring that the food safety management system remains effective and compliant.

Key Takeaways

Thorough Preparation: Understand the requirements and prepare your organization through gap analysis and robust implementation.

Documentation and Training: Ensure all processes are documented, and staff are adequately trained.

Internal Audits and Management Review: Regularly review and improve the system through audits and management oversight.

Choose a Reputable Certification Body: Work with an experienced certification body to navigate the audit process smoothly.

By following these steps, an organization can effectively achieve and maintain FSSC 22000 certification, demonstrating its commitment to food safety and compliance with international standards.

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