Food safety processes are the most essential part of any organisation within the food chain. Not only for protecting customers and the organisation, but in today’s world, consumers are hyper-aware of food safety and production. Ensuring that you have the trust of every consumer is paramount to the success of any food manufacturing and processing organisation.
There are various standards established to support food manufacturers and processors to effectively ensure the highest level of food safety through Food Safety Management Systems.
In this article, we will explore the differences and significance of two international food safety standards, ISO 22001:2018 FSMS and FSSC 22000.
Food Safety Global Standards
Global standards are essential in the food manufacturing and processing industry to deliver products on the same level of predictability and quality. Comply with local and international laws and regulations, making it easier to export your goods and expand your market across the globe.
Here are the two biggest and more reliable international standards:
What is an ISO 22000:2018 FSMS?
ISO 22000:2018 is the international standard for establishing, implementing, and maintaining a Food Safety Management System (FSMS).
The FSMS is designed for organisations to identify and control food safety hazards throughout the entire food chain. An ISO 22000:2018 FSMS is globally recognised and is one of the most sought-after ISO standards.
Principles of an ISO 22000:2018 Food Safety Management System
The top principles of an ISO 22001:2018 FSMS:
- ISO 22001:2018 FSMS requires thorough Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP).
- The standard provides information on primary conditions and activities to maintain a hygienic environment for food production.
- Based on the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle to enable continuous improvement of the FSMS.
- Effective communication throughout the food chain is crucial for an ISO 22001:2018 FSMS.
What is a FSSC 22000 FSS?
The FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification), is a collaboration with international organisations, and is one of the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) recognised schemes. This means this system meets the benchmark criteria for food safety management systems (which ISO 22001:2018 does not).
Principles of FCCS 22000
What sets FSSC 22000 apart from ISO 22001:2018:
- FSSC 22000 is built on the foundation of ISO 22001:2018 and includes all the requirements of ISO 22000 with additional requirements that apply to the food industry.
- Additional requirements include food defence, food fraud prevention, and allergen management.
- FSSC 22000 offers sector-specific modules including food manufacturing, packaging, and animal feed production.
- FSSC 22000 is recognised by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI).
What are the Differences Between ISO 22000:2018 & FSSC 22000?
Both ISO 22001:2018 FSMS and FSSC 22000 provide Food Safety Management Systems however, there are foundational differences between them which is what decides which one is better for your organisation.
These differences include:
| ISO 22001:2018 | FSSC 22000 |
| A generic food safety management standard for any organisation in the food chain regardless of size. | Sector-specific standard based on ISO 22001:2018 and has been tailored specifically for food manufacturers and processors. |
| There are no additional requirements required for ISO 22001:2018. | Additional requirements for food defence, food fraud prevention, and allergen management. |
| Can be certified by any accredited certification body. | Certification is granted by bodies approved by the Foundation for Food Safety Certification. |
| ISO 22001:2018 FSMS is not automatically GFSI recognised but can be leveraged for certification. | Automatically recognised by the Global Food Safety Initiative. Sets global food safety standards benchmarks. |
Choosing the Right Food Safety System
Choosing the right food management system for your organisation can be difficult and depends on the specific needs and requirements of your organisation, customers, and suppliers.
Here are some aspects that could play into choosing the correct system for your organisation:
- If your organisation is solely involved in food manufacturing or processing FSSC 22000 could be more aligned, but if your involvement in the food chain is broader, ISO 22001:2018 is more relevant.
- If your organisation requires food defence, food fraud prevention and allergy management from the start FSSC 22000 is the preferred standard.
- If your organisation requires recognition from the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) FSSC 22000 would be the best choice.
- The lack of certification bodies approved by the Foundation for Food Safety Certification could mean that opting for ISO 22001:2018 would be the better choice.
How WWISE can Help You
At WWISE, we are able to assist you in deciding which international food safety management system is correct for your organisation. Our food safety experts are able to take you through the entire process and help implement the system aligned to the goals of your organisation.
Contact one of our ISO 22001:2018 and FSSC 22000 experts today on 012 644 0142 or email us at admin@wwise.co.za.