FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification 22000) is an internationally recognised certification scheme for food safety management systems. The standard helps organisations in the food supply chain systematically manage food safety, minimise risks and comply with legislation and regulations. FSSC 22000 is based on ISO 22000, supplemented with sector-specific Pre-Requisite Programs (PRPs) and additional requirements established by the Foundation FSSC. Furthermore, the scheme is recognised by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), making it widely accepted around the world.
For companies that produce, store, package or distribute food products, FSSC 22000 is often an important requirement for doing business with retailers, manufacturers and international customers.
Why is FSSC 22000 important?
Food safety plays a crucial role throughout the entire supply chain. Consumers, retailers and regulatory authorities expect food products to be produced and handled safely. At the same time, requirements regarding quality, traceability and risk management continue to become more stringent.
With an FSSC 22000 certification, an organisation demonstrates that it has a structured food safety management system in place. This helps control food safety risks, continuously improve processes and increase reliability throughout the supply chain.
For logistics service providers that store or distribute food products, certification can also contribute to greater customer confidence and improved access to international markets.
How does FSSC 22000 work?
FSSC 22000 combines several components into one integrated food safety management system.
The foundation is ISO 22000, which sets out the requirements for establishing, implementing and continuously improving a food safety management system. In addition, sector-specific Pre-Requisite Programs (PRPs) apply, covering requirements for hygiene, cleaning, maintenance and pest control. Finally, the scheme includes additional FSSC requirements, for example in the areas of food safety culture, food loss and waste, quality control and equipment management.
Together, these components enable organisations to manage food safety not only during production, but throughout the entire logistics chain.
Which companies is FSSC 22000 intended for?
FSSC 22000 has been developed for organisations operating within the food supply chain. This includes manufacturers of food products, ingredients and packaging, as well as logistics service providers that store or distribute food products.
For logistics companies, certification is particularly relevant when they are responsible for the storage or distribution of food products under controlled conditions. More information about logistics storage can be found on the warehousing page.
It is important to note that the certification must always correspond to the activities an organisation actually performs.
What are the benefits of FSSC 22000?
FSSC 22000 offers more than just demonstrable compliance with food safety requirements. Organisations also benefit from a structured way of working and greater reliability towards customers.
A certified management system contributes to better risk management, higher food safety standards, greater transparency throughout the supply chain and continuous process improvement. In addition, FSSC 22000 is recognised worldwide by many retailers and international customers, meaning certification can create new business opportunities.
However, achieving and maintaining certification requires clear procedures, regular audits, engaged employees and continuous attention to food safety.
How does a logistics partner support this?
For companies that store or distribute food products, a logistics partner is an important link in a food-safe supply chain. A professional logistics service provider operates with standardised processes, full traceability and controlled storage and distribution activities.
Axell Logistics provides the storage and distribution of packaged food products and operates according to food safety procedures that are appropriate for the goods being handled. Organisations looking to optimise their logistics processes can also benefit from solutions in the areas of contract logistics and Third Party Logistics (3PL).
