FSSC 22000 adds requirements in Version 6

Already providing a comprehensive certification scheme for food safety management systems, FSSC 22000 extends to further improve food safety and sustainability in its new Version 6.

The updated Version 6 of FSSC 22000 was released in April 2023.

“FSSC 22000 is already quite comprehensive, already incorporating ISO 22000, the industry relevant Pre-Requisite Program and additional requirements defined by FSSC. The new Version strengthens requirements for certification bodies, audit duration and food loss and waste to help organizations deliver on the UN SDGs,” says Stefano Crea, Global Market and Industries Director in DNV.

In addition, the new Version 6 introduces changes in product categories, realignment of food chain categories and integration of food safety and quality culture requirements.

Companies already certified have until April 1, 2024 to prepare. All certification audits from that date onwards will be to FSSC 22000 Version 6. The transition window is 12-month transition window, meaning that all upgrade audits must be completed before 31 March 2025.

“Specific rules apply for those with audit days bridging March and April 2024 in terms of what Version may be applied to the different stages of the audit.  Our recommendation is that companies with existing certificate start preparations as early as possible and plan to implement all requirements in line with the upgraded Version 6,” says Stefano Crea.