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ISO 22000
ISO 22000
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Awarded ISO 22000 and Hazard analysis and critical control points's Guang Ying natural water.

ISO 22000 is a food safety management system by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) which is outcome focused,[1] providing requirements for any organization in the food industry with objective to help to improve overall performance in food safety. These standards are intended to ensure safety in the global food supply chain. The standards involve the overall guidelines for food safety management and also focuses on traceability in the feed and food chain.

Food safety

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Food safety refers to all those hazards, whether chronic or , that may make food injurious to the health of the consumer.[2]

ISO 22000 standard

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ISO 22000 is the most popular voluntary food safety international standard in the food industry with 51,535 total number of sites (as per the ISO Survey 2022). The ISO 22000 family are international voluntary consensus standards which align to Good Standardization Practices (GSP)[3] and the World Trade Organization (WTO) Principles for the Development of International Standards.[4] Defining the requirements for a Food Safety Management System (FSMS) and incorporating the following elements which as defined as FSMS principles:

  • system management
  • prerequisite programs
  • HACCP principles

Critical reviews of the above elements have been conducted by many scientists.[5][6][7][8] Communication along the food chain is essential to ensure that all relevant food safety hazards are identified and adequately controlled at each step within the food chain. This implies communication between organizations both upstream and downstream in the food chain. Communication with customers and suppliers about identified hazards and control measures will assist in clarifying customer and supplier requirements.

Recognition of the organization's role and position within the food chain is essential to ensure effective interactive communication throughout the chain in order to deliver safe food products to the consumer.

ISO 22000 and HACCP

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ISO 22000 has two Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycles which operate one inside the other, the first covering the management system, the second the operations (described in ISO 22000:2018, Clause 8), which simultaneously cover the HACCP principles. ISO 22000 references the Codex Alimentarius General Principles of Food Hygiene, CXC 1-1969[9] which includes HACCP principles and 12 HACCP application steps. The following table explains the relationship and alignment between ISO 22000 and the Codex Alimentarius General Principles of Food Hygiene, CXC 1-1969. The task, Validate the control measure(s) or combination(s) of control measures, also references Guidelines for the Validation of Food Safety Control Measures, CXG 69-2008 [10]

ISO 22000 and HACCP
Task ISO 22000:2018 General Principles of Food Hygiene, CXC 1-1969
Establish the food safety team Subclauses 5.3.1 c) and 5.3.2, and links to Subclauses 7.1.2 (people) and 7.2 (competence) HACCP step 1
Provide the information needed to conduct the hazard analysis Subclause 8.5.1 (from Subclauses 8.5.1.2 to 8.5.1.4) HACCP steps 2 and 3
Prepare the process flow diagram Subclause 8.5.1.5 HACCP step 6 and principle 1
Identify the hazards associated with the food Subclauses 8.5.2.1 and 8.5.2.2 HACCP step 6 and principle 1
Conduct a hazard assessment Subclause 8.5.2.3 HACCP step 6 and principle 1
List and select control measure(s) or combination(s) of control measures Subclause 8.5.2.4 HACCP step 6 and principle 1
Categorize, manage, monitor and document the control measures Subclauses 8.5.2.4 and 8.5.4 (from 8.5.4.1 to 8.5.4.3) HACCP principles 2 and 3, HACCP steps 6, 7, 8, 9 and 12)
Validate the control measure(s) or combination(s) of control measures Subclause 8.5.3 HACCP step 7 and principle 2, step 6 and principle 3, step 11 and principle 6
Establish and apply corrections and corrective actions Subclauses 8.5.4.1, 8.5.4.4 and 8.9 HACCP principle 5, HACCP steps 10 and 11
Control monitoring and measuring (operational processes) Subclause 8.7
Conduct a verification related to the PRPs and hazard control plan Subclause 8.8
Update the preliminary information Subclause 8.6 HACCP steps 5 and 7

A study explains the importance of ISO 22000 Food Safety Management System (FSMS), Critical Control Points Hazard Analysis (HACCP) and the Prerequisite Programs (PRPs) as the foundation of HACCP, in preventing foodborne outbreaks.[11] In addition, another study for HACCP effectiveness between ISO 22000 certified and non-certified dairy companies identified that by implementing the HACCP Food Safety System (FSS) and by being ISO 22000 certified, the level of the achievement of the HACCP objectives is improved significantly.[12]

ISO 22000 family of standards

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ISO published additional standards that are related to ISO 22000. These standards are known as the ISO 22000 family of standards. At the present time, the following standards will make up the ISO 22000 family of standards:

  • ISO 22000 – Food safety management systems – Requirements for any organization in the food chain.
  • ISO 22001 – Guidelines on the application of ISO 9001:2000 for the food and drink industry (replaces: ISO 15161:2001 Withdrawn).
  • ISO/TS 22002- Prerequisite programmes on food safety—Part 1: Food manufacturing; Part 2: Catering; Part 3: Farming; Part 4: Food packaging manufacturing; Part 5: Transport and storage; Part 6: Feed and animal food production
  • ISO/TS 22003 – Food safety — Part 1: Requirements for bodies providing audit and certification of food safety management systems; Part 2: Requirements for bodies providing evaluation and certification of products, processes and services, including an audit of the food safety system
  • ISO/TS 22004 – Food safety management systems – Guidance on the application of ISO 22000:2005.
  • ISO 22005 – Traceability in the feed and food chain – General principles and basic requirements for system design and implementation.
  • ISO 22006 – Quality management systems – Guidance on the application of ISO 9002:2000 for crop production.

ISO 22000 is also used as a basis for the Food Safety Systems Certification (FSSC) Scheme FSSC 22000. FSSC 22000 is a Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) approved scheme, also referred to as a certification programme owner (CPO). The differences between ISO 22000 and schemes with GFSI recognition are explained in a paper from ISO, International standards and private standards.[13]

ISO 9001 vs ISO 22000

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In the early 1990s, the application of ISO 9000:1987 series of standards were embraced by the food industry in the European Union (EU). At the same time, the USDA recognized HACCP systems to demonstrate food safety in the US. This led to these two systems being combined, where ISO 9001 was certified along with HACCP as a single management tool in organizations. In Europe, ISO 9001 and HACCP were used by companies as a "due diligence" defense against prosecution under the 1990 Food Safety Act.[14][15] With ISO 9001 and HACCP established and accepted, the food industry was working towards standardization and a single international standard, eventually, ISO 22000. This path was diverted when the British Retail Consortium published the BRC Food Technical Standard, in 1998.[16] The BRC decision to publish as a stand-alone standard, instead of publishing as an addendum and adding food safety requirements to support ISO 9001, led to the Global Food Safety Initiative creating a benchmarking model for harmonization of private standards. Harmonization was considered as an alternative to promoting standardization with an international standard. Food retailers, as members of the Consumer Goods Forum, changed their ‘due diligence’ defence from ISO 9001 and HACCP, to BRC and other private standards recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative,[17] despite any evidence whether private standards are beneficial or detrimental for global food supply chains.[18]

ISO 22000 is an industrial-specific risk management system for any type of food safety which includes farming, processing, manufacturing, catering, storage and distribution. ISO 22000 is designed using the ISO high level structure (HLS), also referred to as Annex SL, to be integrated with other ISO Management System Standards (MSS) including the Quality Management System of ISO 9001. For conformity assessment and auditing, both ISO 9001 and ISO 22000 refer to ISO 17021 Conformity assessment, Requirements for bodies providing audit and certification of management systems and ISO 19011 Guidelines for auditing management systems. The detailed similarities, differences and combined effects of the two standards (ISO 9001, ISO 22000) can be found elsewhere.[19], [20], [21],.[22], [23][24]

Potential justification

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ISO Management System Standards (MSS) are designed to be integrated for any sector or industry and size, this is further explained in ISO and Small & Medium Enterprises. In 2004, the European Office of Crafts, Trades and Small and Medium sized Enterprises for Standardisation noted that the standard is only suitable for large sized companies and small food businesses will not be able to seek such a high standard due to the lack of resources to pursue the certification. The agency suggested creating an alternative for small food businesses to achieve the same objective.[25] EFSA is now making their efforts on the food legislations that are adaptable for the SMEs in food supply chains.[26] In addition, ISO and United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) jointly published ISO 22000 a practical guide which provides guidance to assist all organizations (including small and medium-sized) that recognize the potential benefits of implementing a FSMS in accordance with ISO 22000.

Food organizations which seek the standard certification are evolving towards integrated management systems, typically integrating Environmental (ISO 14001) and Occupational Health & Safety (ISO 45001) along with Quality (ISO 9001). This takes a process approach and risk-based thinking into consideration where risks are addressed at both organizational and operational levels which include food safety, worker safety and environmental and are from the primary production in the supply chains and the later stages of food processing.[27], [28]

Evolution of ISO 22000

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The ISO 22000 standard is managed and revised by ISO/TC 34/SC 17 with subject matter feedback from experts proposed by national standards bodies.

Year Edition of ISO 22000
2005 1st Edition
2018 2nd Edition

2005 version

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ISO 22000 was first published in 2005 as the first international standard for Food Safety Management Systems (FSMS), harmonizing global food safety practices. It integrated Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) principles with prerequisite programs (PRPs) to create a unified framework for food safety. The initial release established core requirements for FSMS, emphasizing risk management, supply chain communication, and continuous improvement.[29] Initially this version was a more procedural-orientated than a principle based management system.

2018 version

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A major revision aligned ISO 22000 with Annex SL, the high-level structure for ISO management system standards. Key changes included:

  • Stronger emphasis on risk-based thinking (beyond HACCP).
  • Clarification of PRPs vs. operational controls.
  • Enhanced leadership and compliance requirements.[30]

The 2018 revision addressed procedural-orientated rather than a principle-based by including the ISO general management principles, in addition to the FSMS principles, which are also referred to as the Quality Management Principles.

Future versions and growth

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In 2024, the standard was under review for potential updates, including blockchain traceability and AI-driven hazard analysis.[31] ISO 22000 is well positioned for growth due to the ISO 2030 Strategy around inclusiveness[32] and the World Health Organization food safety strategy which explains governments should use international standards and guidelines to the greatest extent.[33] This is supported by the World Trade Organization and Food and Agriculture Organization joint publication which explains the WTO Agreements strongly encourage governments to harmonize their requirements on the basis of international standards.[34]

Regulatory Impact

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The European Union and U.S. FDA recognize ISO 22000 as a voluntary compliance tool for food safety regulations e.g., EU Regulation 852/2004[35] and FSMA Final Rule for Preventive Controls for Human Food.[36] Developing economies e.g., India, Brazil increasingly adopt ISO 22000 to access global markets.[37] For public sector organisations, there are case studies and research papers explaining the benefits of using accredited conformity assessment for ISO 22000.[38] The Codex Alimentarius Committee on Methods of Analysis and Sampling endorses analytical and test methods from various standards writing bodies, including ISO, following recommendations from the relevant Codex Commodity Committee.[39]

See also

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References

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Further reading

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
ISO 22000 is an developed by the (ISO) that specifies requirements for a management system (FSMS) to enable any organization directly or indirectly involved in the —such as producers, processors, transporters, and retailers—to demonstrate its ability to control hazards and consistently provide safe products and services for consumers. The standard was first published in 2005 by ISO Technical Committee 34 (ISO/TC 34) in response to the growing need for a harmonized, globally applicable management framework that went beyond general quality systems like ISO 9001, which lacked specificity for risks. It was created through collaboration among food industry experts, international organizations, and stakeholders to integrate principles from Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) as defined by the Codex Alimentarius Commission, while addressing gaps in earlier approaches that relied solely on HACCP or ISO 9000 combined with HACCP. The 2005 version emphasized a process-based approach for organizations in the , from to end consumption. In June 2018, ISO 22000 was revised and reissued as ISO 22000:2018, adopting the ISO high-level structure (HLS) to facilitate integration with other management system standards such as ISO 9001 (quality management) and ISO 14001 (environmental management). This update incorporated risk-based thinking, the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle, and enhanced emphasis on leadership commitment and continual improvement, while maintaining core elements like interactive communication along the , prerequisite programs (PRPs), and operational prerequisite programs (OPRPs). Supporting standards, such as the ISO 22002 series, were updated in 2025 to further harmonize PRPs across the . An amendment in 2024 addressed changes to align with broader goals. Key to its implementation, ISO 22000 requires organizations to identify and manage hazards through a systematic FSMS that promotes effective communication with suppliers, , and regulatory authorities, thereby reducing risks of and ensuring compliance with legal and customer requirements. Certification to the standard, audited by accredited bodies under ISO 22003, benefits organizations by enhancing consumer trust, facilitating international trade, and supporting recognition by schemes like the (GFSI). As of , there were 45,459 valid certificates to ISO 22000 worldwide, underscoring its role in global .

Overview

Definition and Scope

ISO 22000:2018 is an that specifies requirements for a (FSMS) to enable organizations in the to deliver safe products and services while addressing hazards. The FSMS is designed to control these hazards systematically, ensuring that food products are safe for consumption in accordance with their intended use. The scope of ISO 22000:2018 applies to any directly or indirectly involved in the , encompassing activities from to final consumption, including feed and producers, processors, transporters, storage operators, retailers, and related service providers. It enables these organizations to plan, implement, operate, maintain, and update their FSMS; demonstrate compliance with statutory, regulatory, and customer requirements; communicate effectively with relevant parties; and pursue or self-declaration of conformity. The standard is structured around key clauses that outline the FSMS requirements: context of the organization (including understanding internal and external issues, needs of interested parties, and determining the FSMS scope); leadership (establishing food safety policy and assigning roles); planning (addressing risks, opportunities, and objectives); support (providing resources, competence, awareness, communication, and documented information); operation (implementing prerequisite programs, hazard analysis, and control measures); performance evaluation (monitoring, measurement, analysis, internal audits, and management review); and improvement (nonconformity handling, corrective actions, and continual enhancement). This structure aligns with the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle, applied at two levels: an outer cycle for the overall management system (covering planning, support, performance evaluation, and improvement) and an inner cycle for operational processes (focusing on hazard control), which collectively support continual improvement and risk reduction. ISO 22000:2018 integrates and Critical Control Points (HACCP) principles within its operational requirements to strengthen hazard control across the .

Role in Food Safety Management

ISO 22000 establishes a comprehensive framework for management systems (FSMS) that enables organizations throughout the to systematically identify, evaluate, and control hazards, thereby preventing and safeguarding consumer health. By focusing on risk-based approaches, the standard ensures that potential threats—such as biological, chemical, or physical contaminants—are addressed proactively at every operational level, from production to distribution. This structured methodology not only minimizes the risk of foodborne illnesses but also supports the delivery of safe, high-quality products to end-users. The standard aligns closely with the principles outlined in the , the international food standards body jointly run by the (FAO) and the (WHO), to facilitate global harmonization of practices. This alignment incorporates Codex guidelines on and hygiene controls, allowing organizations worldwide to adopt consistent, evidence-based strategies that transcend national borders and regulatory differences. As a result, ISO 22000 promotes in the global food trade, reducing discrepancies in safety protocols and enhancing trust among international partners. A key aspect of ISO 22000 is its emphasis on interactive communication across the entire food chain, which is essential for early detection and mitigation of hazards introduced at any stage, including upstream suppliers and downstream consumers. This communication protocol fosters collaboration among stakeholders to share critical information on prerequisites, risks, and control measures, ensuring a holistic approach to hazard management. It integrates HACCP principles for operational prerequisite programs and hazard analysis. Furthermore, certification to ISO 22000 allows organizations to demonstrate verifiable compliance with relevant legal, regulatory, and customer-specific requirements, thereby building credibility and facilitating . This demonstrable assurance is particularly valuable in regulated industries, where adherence to statutory obligations can prevent recalls, legal penalties, and reputational damage while meeting the expectations of buyers and authorities.

Historical Development

2005 Version

ISO 22000:2005, titled Food safety management systems – Requirements for any organization in the food chain, was published in September 2005 by the (ISO) through its Technical Committee ISO/TC 34/SC 17, which focuses on food products and management systems for . This standard marked the first international benchmark specifically designed to specify requirements for a food safety (FSMS) applicable to all types and sizes of organizations within the , from production to distribution. The core focus of ISO 22000:2005 was to integrate the quality management principles of ISO 9001 with the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) system, creating a comprehensive FSMS that ensures consistent production of safe food products while meeting statutory, regulatory, and customer requirements. This combination addressed gaps in existing approaches by embedding HACCP's systematic preventive controls into a broader management system framework, facilitating effective communication of food safety hazards and risks across the supply chain. Key requirements included conducting hazard analysis to identify potential food safety risks, performing risk assessments to evaluate their significance, and establishing prerequisite programs (PRPs) as foundational controls for hygiene, pest management, and facility maintenance to support the HACCP plan. The standard's initial structure consisted of eight clauses, deliberately aligned with the structure of ISO 9001:2000 to promote compatibility and ease of integration with other management systems. These clauses covered scope and normative references (clauses 1–3), general FSMS requirements (clause 4), management commitment and resource allocation (clauses 5–6), planning and operational controls including (clause 7), and evaluation, verification, and continual improvement (clause 8). This alignment enabled organizations to harmonize food safety efforts with without redundant documentation. The 2005 version laid the groundwork for subsequent enhancements, such as those in the 2018 revision, which introduced a high-level structure for better alignment with modern ISO management standards.

2018 Revision

The 2018 revision of ISO 22000, published on June 19, 2018, by the (ISO), superseded the 2005 edition and introduced significant structural and conceptual advancements to the food safety management system (FSMS) standard. This update aimed to enhance alignment with contemporary management practices while maintaining the core focus on preventing hazards throughout the . Organizations certified under the 2005 version were given a three-year transition period to comply with the new requirements. A major structural change was the adoption of , the high-level structure (HLS) common to ISO management system standards, which organizes the document into clauses 4 through 10 for improved compatibility and integration with standards like ISO 9001 and ISO 14001. This harmonization facilitates easier implementation of multiple management systems within an by using consistent terminology and clause sequencing. The 2018 edition embedded risk-based thinking throughout the FSMS, extending beyond operational hazards to include strategic risks and opportunities arising from internal and external issues (Clause 4.1) as well as needs and expectations of interested parties (Clause 4.2). Clause 6.1 requires organizations to plan actions to address these risks and opportunities, ensuring proactive enhancement of the FSMS's effectiveness and promoting a holistic approach to . This shift distinguishes between strategic (business-level) risks and operational risks managed via and critical control points (HACCP), which remains a mandatory component for control. Operational planning and control requirements were strengthened in Clause 8.1, mandating detailed planning for processes that impact , including the integration of prerequisite programs (PRPs), control plans, and outsourced activities. Clause 8.8 specifically enhances PRP of control measures by requiring independent personnel to confirm their ongoing effectiveness, thereby ensuring robust across the . Clause 8 provides detailed provisions for critical operational elements, including (Clause 8.3), which demands documented information on product identification and movement, retained for a period at least equal to the product's plus applicable statutory requirements, with periodic testing of its effectiveness. and response (Clause 8.4) now require documented procedures for identifying potential emergencies, preparing mitigation plans, and evaluating response effectiveness post-incident. Additionally, Clause 8.9 outlines procedures for handling nonconforming outputs, including withdrawal and processes, which involve evaluating affected products for potential release, reprocessing, or disposal, with all actions documented to prevent unsafe products from reaching consumers.

2024 Amendment

In February 2024, ISO published Amendment 1 to ISO 22000:2018 (ISO 22000:2018/Amd 1:2024), titled Climate action changes, to incorporate considerations of into the framework. This amendment modifies clauses 4.1 (understanding the organization and its context) and 4.2 (understanding the needs and expectations of interested parties) to explicitly require organizations to determine whether is a relevant issue or requirement affecting their FSMS. The changes align ISO 22000 with broader updates across ISO standards, emphasizing the integration of climate-related risks and opportunities to enhance and resilience in operations. Certified organizations must assess the applicability of these amendments during their next surveillance or recertification , with no fixed transition period specified beyond ongoing compliance.

2025 Updates to Supporting Standards

In 2025, the (ISO) published revisions to the ISO/TS 22002 series of technical specifications, which provide guidance on prerequisite programs (PRPs) essential for implementing ISO 22000 management systems. Specifically, ISO/TS 22002-1:2025, focusing on PRPs for manufacturing, and the new ISO/TS 22002-100:2025, addressing common PRPs across the , feed, and materials , were released on July 29, 2025. These updates aim to enhance consistency and applicability in global practices without altering the core framework of ISO 22000:2018. Key changes in these standards include a streamlined for PRP requirements, making them more adaptable to diverse segments. ISO/TS 22002-1:2025 narrows its scope exclusively to food manufacturing operations, removing previously overlapping generic elements to avoid . In contrast, ISO/TS 22002-100:2025 introduces foundational PRP criteria applicable throughout the food, feed, and packaging sectors, consolidating common requirements such as layout, utilities, , and personnel hygiene that were formerly distributed across sector-specific standards. This modular approach promotes broader applicability while allowing organizations to select relevant sector-specific guidance. The 2025 revisions integrate seamlessly with ISO 22000:2018 by supporting Clause 8.2, which mandates the establishment and verification of PRPs tailored to operational contexts. Organizations implementing these updated PRPs can more effectively demonstrate compliance through enhanced verification processes, aligning with international benchmarks such as those from the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). This alignment facilitates risk-based hazard control and operational PRP validation, reinforcing the overall food safety management system without necessitating changes to the 2018 core standard. These updates have significant implications for schemes, particularly FSSC 22000 Version 7, which is scheduled for in March or April 2026 and explicitly incorporates the new ISO/TS 22002 series to strengthen PRP requirements. By embedding these revisions, Version 7 enhances audit efficiency, supply chain resilience, and rigor for food manufacturers and related sectors, enabling certified organizations to transition smoothly while maintaining GFSI benchmarking.

Core Requirements

Food Safety Management System Framework

The Food Safety Management System (FSMS) framework in ISO 22000:2018 establishes a structured process approach for organizations in the to identify, manage, and mitigate food safety risks, ensuring the production of safe food products. This framework is primarily defined in Clauses 4 through 7 and Clause 9, which provide the non-operational requirements for building, supporting, and evaluating the FSMS. By aligning the system with organizational context and strategic objectives, these clauses promote continual improvement and integration across all relevant processes, from sourcing to final distribution. Clause 4 addresses the context of the organization, requiring entities to understand internal and external issues that could influence the FSMS's intended outcomes, such as regulatory changes, market demands, or technological advancements. Organizations must identify the needs and expectations of interested parties, including customers, suppliers, regulators, and employees, that impact performance. Based on this analysis, the scope of the FSMS is determined, specifying the products, processes, sites, and stages covered, while excluding irrelevant activities. The FSMS is then established, implemented, maintained, and continually improved within this defined scope to ensure its effectiveness and relevance. Clause 5 focuses on , mandating that top management demonstrate commitment to the FSMS by integrating into the organization's overall business processes and ensuring its alignment with strategic direction. Top management must establish, implement, and maintain a that is appropriate to the organization's , communicates commitments to comply with requirements, prevent or reduce hazards, and drive continual improvement, while making it available to relevant parties. Additionally, roles, responsibilities, and authorities for ensuring FSMS effectiveness must be clearly assigned, with top management promoting a culture of and for . Clause 6 outlines planning requirements to proactively manage risks and opportunities. Organizations must identify and assess risks and opportunities from Clause 4, then plan actions to address them, integrating these into FSMS processes where necessary and evaluating their effectiveness. Food safety objectives must be established at relevant functions, levels, and processes, ensuring they are measurable, monitored, communicated, and updated as needed; plans to achieve these objectives specify actions, resources, responsibilities, timelines, and evaluation criteria. Changes to the FSMS, such as expansions or modifications, must be planned to avoid unintended disruptions, including the determination of prerequisite programs and preliminary identification steps that support operational control using tools like HACCP. Clause 7 details the support elements essential for FSMS operation. Organizations must determine and provide resources, including , , work environment, and external providers, to establish, implement, maintain, and improve the FSMS, with monitoring to ensure suitability. Competence requirements for personnel affecting must be identified based on , , , and skills, with actions taken to address gaps and records retained. Awareness efforts ensure relevant personnel understand the food safety policy, objectives, their roles, and the consequences of nonconformities, including implications for partners. Communication processes must address internal interactions, external exchanges with interested parties on food safety matters, and consumer-facing information, while documented information—such as policies, objectives, and procedures—is created, controlled, and retained to demonstrate conformance and support effective . Clause 9 requires evaluation to verify FSMS effectiveness. Organizations must determine monitoring and measurement criteria for the FSMS and its processes, including what, how, when, and by whom it will be done, with and evaluation of results to assess and trends. Internal s must be conducted at planned intervals by competent auditors to check conformance to requirements and effective implementation, with results reported to top management. Management reviews must occur at planned intervals, incorporating inputs like data, results, customer feedback, and needs, to evaluate the FSMS's suitability, adequacy, and effectiveness; outputs include decisions on improvements, needs, and policy/objective updates to ensure ongoing alignment with organizational goals.

Integration with HACCP Principles

ISO 22000 mandates the application of HACCP or HACCP-like principles within Clause 8 for operational planning and control, ensuring systematic identification and management of food safety hazards throughout the . This integration builds on the framework, requiring organizations to implement a structured process to prevent, eliminate, or reduce hazards to acceptable levels. The standard incorporates the 12-step HACCP process as outlined by , with most steps addressed directly in Clause 8, except for assembling the team (preliminary) and (supporting). These steps are:
  1. Assemble the HACCP team.
  2. Describe the product.
  3. Identify the intended use.
  4. Construct a .
  5. On-site confirmation of the .
  6. Conduct a by listing all potential hazards associated with each process step, conducting a , and considering control measures.
  7. Determine critical control points (CCPs).
  8. Establish critical limits for each CCP.
  9. Establish a monitoring system for each CCP.
  10. Establish corrective actions.
  11. Establish verification procedures.
  12. Establish and record-keeping concerning all procedures and records appropriate to these principles and their application.
Before applying the HACCP principles, organizations must establish prerequisite programs (PRPs) as the foundational conditions and activities necessary to maintain a hygienic environment conducive to , such as good manufacturing practices (GMP) and good practices (GHP). These PRPs address general hazards and support the effective implementation of the subsequent HACCP-based operational controls in Clause 8. For significant hazards not adequately controlled by PRPs or CCPs, ISO 22000 introduces operational prerequisite programs (OPRPs) as an extension within the hazard control framework, providing targeted measures to manage risks that fall between basic prerequisites and critical points. This layered approach ensures comprehensive coverage of risks while aligning operational processes with the broader food safety management system.

ISO 22000 Family

The ISO 22000 family consists of a suite of international standards and technical specifications developed by the (ISO) to provide a comprehensive framework for management systems (FSMS) throughout the . These standards and guidelines work together to ensure organizations can identify, control, and mitigate hazards effectively, from production to distribution. The family emphasizes harmonization, allowing for consistent application across diverse sectors while accommodating specific operational needs. At the core of the family is ISO 22000:2018, which outlines the requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an FSMS. This standard applies to all types and sizes of organizations directly or indirectly involved in the , including producers, processors, transporters, and retailers, enabling them to demonstrate compliance with objectives through a systematic approach that integrates and risk-based thinking. Supporting the core standard, the ISO 22002 series details prerequisite programs (PRPs) essential for maintaining a hygienic environment and preventing . For instance, ISO 22002-1:2025 specifies requirements for PRPs in , building on a general framework in ISO 22002-100:2025 to cover foundational controls like facility layout, equipment maintenance, and personnel ; these 2025 updates enhance coverage by incorporating modern risks such as management and factors. Guidance documents within the family include ISO 22005:2007, which focuses on systems in the , offering principles and basic requirements for tracking products from origin to consumption to facilitate rapid response to safety issues. ISO 22003-1:2022 establishes requirements for third-party bodies that audit and certify FSMS, ensuring competence, impartiality, and consistency in certification processes to build trust in verified claims. The ISO 22000 family also supports integration with (GFSI)-recognized schemes, such as BRCGS and SQF, allowing organizations to align their FSMS with additional industry-specific protocols for broader compliance.

Comparison to ISO 9001

ISO 22000 and ISO 9001 share several foundational elements that facilitate their alignment within the broader family of ISO management system standards. Both standards adopt the Annex SL high-level structure introduced in their 2015 and 2018 revisions, respectively, which organizes content into 10 core clauses addressing the context of the organization, leadership, planning, support, operation, performance evaluation, and improvement. This common framework promotes consistency in terminology, core definitions, and processes across ISO standards. Additionally, both incorporate the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle as a basis for ongoing improvement, emphasizing risk-based thinking, leadership commitment, and resource allocation to achieve organizational objectives. Clauses related to leadership, planning, support, and improvement are particularly aligned, allowing organizations to address quality and safety goals through similar mechanisms such as internal audits and corrective actions. Despite these similarities, the standards diverge significantly in scope and requirements to address distinct organizational needs. ISO 22000 is tailored specifically to food safety management systems (FSMS), mandating a focus on identifying and controlling food safety hazards through hazard analysis and the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) principles, including prerequisite programs (PRPs) and operational prerequisite programs (OPRPs) to mitigate risks throughout the food chain. In contrast, ISO 9001 provides a general framework for quality management systems (QMS) applicable to any industry, emphasizing customer satisfaction, process efficiency, and product conformity without addressing food-specific safety hazards or regulatory compliance in the food sector. Clause 8 in ISO 22000, for instance, details operational planning and control for food safety, which has no direct equivalent in ISO 9001's broader operational provisions. The shared Annex SL structure enables seamless integration of ISO 22000 and ISO 9001, allowing organizations to implement a unified that covers both and aspects, with combined possible from accredited bodies. However, achieving ISO 22000 compliance requires additional implementation of PRPs and OPRPs beyond ISO 9001's requirements, ensuring food-specific controls are embedded. For organizations in the , ISO 9001 serves as a foundational tool for overall enhancement and customer focus across operations, while ISO 22000 is indispensable for demonstrating verifiable compliance and meeting global regulatory demands in the .

Implementation

Adoption Process

Organizations adopting ISO 22000 begin with a to evaluate their existing practices against the standard's clauses and prerequisite programs (PRPs). This involves mapping current processes, identifying nonconformities, and prioritizing areas for improvement, such as and operational controls. Following the , organizations develop their management system (FSMS) by establishing the scope, , and objectives in alignment with ISO 22000 requirements, including determining whether is a relevant issue and considering any related requirements from interested parties as per Amendment 1:2024. This stage includes conducting , developing a HACCP-based plan to identify operational prerequisite programs (OPRPs) and critical control points (CCPs), and creating documented procedures for PRPs drawn from supporting standards like ISO/TS 22002 series. Implementation entails applying the FSMS across operations, including staff training on competencies, deploying controls for hazard mitigation, and verifying systems. Internal are conducted to assess compliance and , ensuring all personnel understand their roles in maintaining . For , organizations engage an accredited certification body to perform a two-stage . Stage 1 involves a review of FSMS documentation and readiness, while Stage 2 comprises an on-site evaluation of and performance. Successful completion leads to , followed by annual surveillance audits and full recertification every three years. Maintenance of the FSMS requires ongoing management reviews to evaluate performance against objectives, address risks and opportunities, and implement corrective actions for nonconformities. Continual improvement is achieved through monitoring key performance indicators, updating procedures as needed, and ensuring the system's adaptability to changes in the .

Certification and Justification

Pursuing provides organizations in the with enhanced by demonstrating a commitment to robust practices, which is often required by global retailers and suppliers. It also reduces the of product recalls through systematic control, thereby minimizing financial losses and reputational damage associated with events. Additionally, certification helps meet escalating demands from customers and regulatory bodies for verifiable assurances, fostering stronger relationships. The cost-benefit analysis of ISO 22000 certification reveals that initial investments in , internal audits, and system development are typically offset by long-term gains in and risk mitigation. For instance, reduced incidents lower liability costs and , while improved process controls enhance and competitive positioning in international markets. These benefits contribute to overall cost savings, as certified organizations report fewer disruptions and better resource allocation over time. Empirical studies underscore the effectiveness of ISO 22000 in lowering incidents. In multi-line food facilities, implementation led to a 44-46% reduction in non-compliance incidents across , processing, and sectors, highlighting improved and compliance. Such outcomes align with broader showing certified firms achieve superior control over risks compared to non-certified peers, resulting in safer products and fewer deviations. While ISO 22000 certification is resource-intensive for small businesses, particularly due to high implementation costs and training needs, it remains scalable through targeted guidance. The standard ISO 22004:2014 offers practical application advice for systems, enabling smaller enterprises to adapt the standard without excessive burden. This alignment with HACCP principles further supports compliance for resource-limited operations.

Global Impact

Regulatory Compliance

ISO 22000 facilitates harmonization with key global safety regulations by integrating principles that align with international frameworks. It supports EU Regulation (EC) No 178/2002, which establishes general law principles including , , and primary responsibility for operators to ensure safety throughout the . Similarly, ISO 22000 aids compliance with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Modernization Act (FSMA), particularly its emphasis on preventive controls and , as evidenced by GFSI-recognized schemes like FSSC 22000 that build on ISO 22000 and align with FSMA rules. The standard also incorporates the HACCP principles and guidelines from the Commission, providing a unified approach to and safety management across the global . The management system (FSMS) outlined in ISO 22000 plays a critical role in by mandating comprehensive documentation for hazard control, monitoring, and verification. This documentation enhances , allowing organizations to track products from raw materials to final distribution, which is essential for meeting legal requirements under regulations like EU 178/2002 and FSMA. Furthermore, the FSMS enables rapid response to foodborne outbreaks through predefined corrective actions and recall procedures, supporting regulatory mandates for and minimizing risks. Regionally, adoption of ISO 22000 varies, with mandatory requirements in certain contexts such as , where is often required for exports like products to demonstrate compliance with import safety standards. In other regions, it remains voluntary but is frequently mandated by global buyers via GFSI-recognized schemes, such as FSSC 22000 and BRCGS, which incorporate ISO 22000 as a foundational element for supplier approval. The 2025 revisions to the ISO 22002 series on prerequisite programs (PRPs), including the new ISO 22002-100:2025, bolster by establishing unified PRP requirements for across the entire , with enhanced emphasis on to align with evolving laws on transparency. These updates address modern challenges like allergen management and prevention, ensuring organizations can more effectively meet obligations under frameworks such as FSMA and regulations. to ISO 22000 serves as documented proof of adherence to these regulatory alignments. ISO 22000 has seen steady global adoption, with over 51,000 valid certifications reported worldwide as of 2022, reflecting a more than 13% increase from the previous year. This growth has been particularly pronounced in , where the experienced a 40% rise in ISO 22000 certifications, driven by expanding sectors in countries like and . Such trends underscore the standard's role in enhancing amid rising demands. Implementation of ISO 22000 yields tangible benefits, including bolstered trust across s through standardized hazard controls and , which facilitate smoother collaborations among stakeholders. Organizations often report reduced via improved process efficiencies; for instance, a processor achieved a 23% decrease in product after integrating real-time monitoring of critical control points. Additionally, the framework enhances resilience to disruptions, such as those during pandemics, by enabling proactive that minimizes interruptions and maintains operational continuity. Current trends highlight increasing integration of ISO 22000 with sustainability standards like ISO 14001, allowing organizations to align food safety with environmental goals, such as resource optimization and emissions reduction. The 2025 updates to the ISO 22002 series on prerequisite programs are influencing alignments in schemes like FSSC 22000 version 7, which incorporates these revisions to strengthen global benchmarking and practices. Looking ahead, the broader certification market, including ISO 22000, is projected to grow at a of approximately 5.6% through 2030, reaching USD 8.42 billion, fueled by expansion and intensified global trade requiring robust safety assurances. Regulatory support continues to drive this uptake by mandating aligned standards for international compliance.

References

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