FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification 22000) is a globally recognized food safety certification scheme. It provides a framework for effectively managing food safety responsibilities and is based on existing ISO standards. Here’s a quick breakdown:
What FSSC 22000 Is
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A certification scheme for food safety management systems (FSMS).
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Based on ISO 22000 (a general food safety management system standard), ISO/TS 22002-1 (prerequisite programs for food manufacturing), and additional FSSC-specific requirements.
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Recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), which means it’s accepted by major retailers and manufacturers worldwide.
Who It’s For
FSSC 22000 is designed for companies in the food supply chain, including:
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Food manufacturers
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Feed producers
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Packaging manufacturers
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Transport and storage operators
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Catering and retail organizations (to a certain extent)
Key Components
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ISO 22000 – Core management system requirements.
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PRP (Prerequisite Program) – Industry-specific programs (e.g., ISO/TS 22002-1 for food manufacturing).
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FSSC Additional Requirements – Topics like food fraud prevention, allergen management, and more.
Benefits
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Enhances food safety and regulatory compliance.
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Improves market access by meeting customer and retailer expectations.
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Encourages continuous improvement in food safety processes.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of FSSC 22000, BRCGS, and SQF, three of the most recognized food safety certification schemes globally. Each has its strengths, and the best choice depends on your organization’s needs, industry segment, and customer expectations.
FSSC 22000 vs. BRCGS vs. SQF
| Feature | FSSC 22000 | BRCGS (Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standard) | SQF (Safe Quality Food) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foundation | ISO-based (ISO 22000 + PRPs + FSSC add-ons) | Proprietary standard developed by BRCGS | Proprietary standard developed by SQFI (part of FMI – Food Marketing Institute) |
| GFSI Recognized | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Focus | Food safety management systems | Product safety, quality, legality | Food safety & quality, with strong retailer alignment |
| Global Reach | Strong in Europe & Asia | Strong in UK, growing globally | Popular in North America |
| Structure | Risk-based, flexible, process-driven | Prescriptive, audit checklist-style | Mix of system- and checklist-based |
| Quality Management | Optional (ISO 9001 integration) | Included (mandatory) | Included (with levels of certification) |
| Prerequisite Programs (PRPs) | Based on ISO/TS 22002-x series | Included in the standard | Built-in and detailed |
| Audit Style | Systems-based (less checklist, more process review) | More checklist-driven and black-and-white | Checklist style with rating (score-based) |
| Certification Levels | Single level | Grades (A, B, C, etc.) | Levels 1, 2, 3 (Level 3 = GFSI benchmarked) |
| Brand Requirements | Less specific to branding/retail | Strong focus on retailer and brand protection | Retailer-driven with strong US backing |
🔍 Summary
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FSSC 22000: Best for companies already using ISO systems or those wanting a flexible, process-driven approach. Ideal for companies operating globally or exporting to Europe.
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BRCGS: Highly prescriptive and detailed. Great if your customers are UK or brand-focused retailers. Strong focus on product specifications and labeling.
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SQF: Excellent for North American markets, particularly if you supply to U.S. retailers. It provides a balance of food safety and product quality assurance.
✅ Which One Should You Choose?
It depends on:
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Your location and market (e.g., Europe = FSSC, U.S. = SQF, UK = BRCGS)
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Your customers’ preferences
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Whether you prefer a system-based (FSSC) or checklist-based (BRCGS/SQF) approach
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How much focus you want on quality vs. safety
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