What is ISO 22000 Certification?

ISO 22000 certification is an internationally recognized standard that specifies the requirements for a food safety management system. It is designed to help organizations identify and control food safety hazards, and ensure that food is safe for consumption. It provides a framework for businesses to implement effective food safety management procedures and controls. Certification to ISO 22000 is a formal recognition that an organization has an FSMS in place that meets the requirements of the standard. 

Who Needs ISO 22000 Certification?

Certification to ISO 22000 is suitable for any organization in the food supply chain and can be used by organizations of all sizes and types, from small businesses to large multinational corporations. It is most suitable for: 

Food businesses

Any business that handles, processing, or manufactures food items can get ISO 22000 certified. This includes restaurants, grocery stores, catering companies, and food manufacturers.

Farms

Farms that grow crops or raise animals for food can get ISO 22000 certified. This certification ensures that the farm is following proper food safety procedures from start to finish.

Food transportation businesses

Any business that transports food can get ISO 22000 certified. This includes companies that ship food products via truck, train, plane, or boat.

Food storage businesses

Any business that stores food can get ISO 22000 certified. This includes companies that operate warehouses or distribution centers.

Retailers

Any retailer that sells food products can get ISO 22000 certified. This certification ensures that the retailer is selling safe and wholesome food products

How to Get ISO 22000 Certified?

1. Get Familiar with the Standard: The first step is to familiarize yourself with the requirements of ISO 22000. You can do this by purchasing a copy of the standard.

2. Implement a Food Safety Management System: The next step is to implement a food safety management system (FSMS) that meets the requirements of the standard. This can be done by developing your own FSMS or by adopting an existing one.

3. ISO 22000 Training: Once you have implemented a food safety management system, you will need to train your employees on how to use it. This can be done through ISO 22000 training courses.

4. Register for Certification: The next step is to register for certification with a certification body. This will involve filling out an application and paying a fee.

5. Audit: Once you have registered for certification, a certification body will conduct an audit to determine if your FSMS meets the requirements of ISO 22000. If it does, you will be awarded certification.

6. Maintain Certification: After you have been certified, you will need to maintain your certification by having your FSMS audited on a regular basis.

Conclusion

Certification to ISO 22000 is a formal recognition that an organization has an FSMS in place that meets the requirements of the standard. Any organization can get ISO 22000 certified, from small businesses to large multinational corporations. To get certified, businesses must implement a food safety management system, provide ISO 22000 training to their employees, register for certification with a certification body, and get certified if found compliant.