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FSSC 22000 Version 6: Changes Certified the Organizations Must Be Aware Of

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Lara Wilson
FSSC 22000 Version 6: Changes Certified the Organizations Must Be Aware Of

Food Safety System Certification (FSSC) 22000 has always been a helpful program for organizations wishing to maintain the highest level of food safety management - and establish consumer trust and confidence. Version 6 (V6) of the internationally recognized methodology has been officially released. This new version has a considerable number of improvements intended to increase the scheme's effectiveness. These changes will have a significant impact on organizations in the food chain, so make sure you're up to date on what they are and how they will influence your business. On 1st April, 2023 FSSC 22000 version 6 is published. FSSC 22000 certification is currently held by approximately 31,000 businesses worldwide.


Why was the FSSC 22000 standard updated?

The modifications are intended to:

  • Integrate ISO 22003-1:2022 (requirements for organizations carrying out audits and certification of food safety management systems).
  • Increase standards in areas that will assist organizations in meeting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
  • Incorporate feedback received in the V6 development survey.

The Scheme is made up of five sections and two appendices that are all combined into one document. In addition, there are five Annexes. All of these publications provide Scheme requirements that must be met. The mandatory conditions of the so-called BOS List (Board of Stakeholder Decision List) remain in place for certification.


FSSC 22000 Version 6: Changes Certified the Organizations Must Be Aware Of

Some of the new standards address a wide range of topics. These topics must be examined critically. With this in mind, an effective and efficient implementation strategy must be established. Please keep in mind that more resources may be necessary. The upcoming upgrade period from 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025, during which certifications must be upgraded from FSSC 22000 version 5.1 to version 6, could lead companies to postpone implementing the changes, particularly the new requirements added to the standard. However, we urge that you begin working on implementing the new standards as soon as possible, as some of them may be regarded as difficult.

Some Important Changes Are:

  1.   Food Loss and Waste
  2.   Requirement of Communications
  3.   Food safety and quality culture
  4.   A scientific approach to quality control
  5.   Management of foreign bodies and any breakages
  6. Qualitative and quantitative traceability of labels and printed packaging (including secondary packaging) including food safety-relevant information such as best-before dates, reactions, and nutritional values
  7. Comprehensive allergy leadership, including FSSC 22000 version 6 training, declaration, validation, and verification
  8.  Food Chain Category Realignment in line with ISO 22003-1:2022
  9.  Trading and brokerage (FII) were recently added to the scope.
  10. Agricultural and FSSC 22000-Quality are being phased out.
  11. Modifications and adjustments to the certification process requirements
  12. A new QR code on certifications has been added to increase traceability.


FSSCv6 is expected to be launched in April 2023, with key changes including new and changed food chain categories, extra requirements, increased audit periods time, additional documentation, and the use of QR codes on certificates. Organizations must ensure that they are updated on these changes and take the required steps to prepare for FSSC v6 audits. While satisfying legislative expectations, FSSCv6 provides a framework for organizations to enhance their operations, minimize risks, and contribute to a sustainable future.

 

 

 

 

 


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