The FSSC 22000 Certification covers the entire spectrum of food safety management, including food additives and their packaging materials.

The FSSC Foundation, an organization operating in the field of the certifications in the Agri-Food Sector, based in the Netherlands, is the global non-profit and independent owner of the FSSC 22000 Food Safety Management System. Its goal is to provide confidence and make an impact in the food sector.

The FSSC 22000 is a GFSI Certified Scheme aligned with the ISO management system and the harmonized scheme approach. With the assistance of certification bodies, organizations across the food industry can achieve their business objectives.

Q-Cert offers accredited certification services for scheme FSSC 22000 according to accreditation from ESYD – No of Certificate 110.

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MS Certification
No of Certificate 110
Annex A 17

What is the FSSC 22000 Standard?

It is a standard that combines the requirements of a management system with those established by the globally recognized Food Safety Organization GFSI and includes:

  • The requirements of the ISO 22000 standard,
  • The additional requirements set by the Scheme (FSSC 22000), and
  • The requirements of the technical specifications in the ISO/TS 22002-* or BSI/PAS series (depending on the type of activity of the organization to be inspected).

It is suitable for:

  • Producers,
  • Processors,
  • Distributors of food, food additives, animal feed, as well as their packaging materials.

In Greece, especially in Thessaloniki and Macedonia, many companies in the sector choose the FSSC 22000 standard to ensure the safety of their products, services, and to secure commercial agreements with high-profile clients.

Why do you need certification with the FSSC 22000 standard?

Certification achieves:

  • Full alignment with international standards, such as ISO 22000.
  • Coverage of all legislative/regulatory requirements and market demands for food safety through the application of its requirements.
  • Minimization of errors, ensuring consumer protection from potential harmful consequences.
  • Differentiation of your business from competitors, offering a clear competitive advantage.

Benefits of FSSC 22000 Certification

  • Food Safety

By implementing this standard, businesses ensure that their production processes or service offerings comply with industry best practices and the strictest international standards, enhancing consumer confidence and promoting continuous commitment to your business.

  • Trust and Reliability

FSSC 22000 certification builds and strengthens trust not only with consumers but also with business partners. When partners and clients know that the company is certified according to a globally recognized standard, its reliability and reputation significantly increase, leading to stronger and more stable business relationships, as partners are confident in the ability to provide safe and quality products/services at every stage of the supply chain.

  • Operational Efficiency

Implementing the FSSC 22000 standard is not just about regulatory compliance but also about improving internal business processes. With the systematic approach offered by FSSC 22000, businesses can identify and reduce risks at all stages of the production process. This leads to more efficient and rational operations, resulting in reduced waste, losses, and costs. Increased operational efficiency also contributes to achieving higher quality products at lower costs, enhancing the company’s competitiveness.

  • Market Access

FSSC 22000 certification is key to accessing new markets and expanding business internationally. Companies with FSSC 22000 certification can compete globally and negotiate more easily with major clients and partners who require high safety standards.

The FSSC 22000 Certification Process

The certification process follows the rules of management systems and includes the following steps:

  • Preliminary Stage
  • Client application review: Determine the required audit time and the audit team.
  • Audit scheduling: Set dates.
  • Certification Audit
  • Stage I: Documentation review of the Management System and facilities.
  • Stage II: Implementation check, monitoring the organization’s operations, collecting objective evidence, drafting a report and findings, closing corrective actions.
  • Certification Decision: Review by an independent person appointed by the certification body.
  • Certificate issuance: The certificate is valid for three years.
  • Annual Surveillance Audit
  • 1st & 2nd surveillance audit: Annual surveillance audit to maintain certificate validity, one of which will be unannounced.
  • Recertification Audit
  • For recertification and continued validity of the certificate for the next three years, steps A & B are followed again without Stage I of step A.

More detailed information about the certification process can be found in the Q-CERT certification regulation (F-2105 version 6.0).

Who Should Obtain FSSC 22000 Audit?

  • Target Audience

The certification is suitable for producers, processors, and distributors of food and food additives, as well as their packaging materials.

  • Industry-Specific Needs

The FSSC 22000 certification is particularly important for businesses in the food industry. For these businesses, certification ensures that every stage of the production process complies with strict safety standards, from the initial processing of raw materials to the packaging, storage, and distribution of the final product.

  • Additional Information

It is important to note that this certification is often necessary for businesses wishing to collaborate with large retail chains or international markets, where compliance with international safety standards is a prerequisite.

Frequently Asked Questions about FSSC 22000 Certification:

Can a small company be certified according to the standard’s requirements?

The FSSC 22000 certification is not only intended for large multinational companies but is equally important for smaller businesses looking to expand into new markets or improve their internal food safety management.

How will the FSSC 22000 certification benefit me?

The FSSC 22000 certification provides businesses with a clear and organized framework for managing food safety, which can be tailored to the specific needs and challenges of each business. Additionally, businesses with FSSC 22000 certification are often recognized as more reliable and committed to the quality and safety of their products. This can open new markets and attract more customers, strengthening the business’s position both locally and internationally.

For more information about the certification or for frequently asked questions, you can contact our Certification Body. Businesses can also visit the official FSSC website, where they will find detailed instructions and support.

Audit Information & ExpectationsApplication Form
F-2105 (valid for version 6)F-2519
Submit the application form to: info@qmscert.com