Food manufacturers are often asked for “ISO 22000” by one customer and “FSSC 22000” by another. They are closely related, and choosing the right one early saves a second certification project.
What they share
FSSC 22000 is built on ISO 22000. Both require a food safety management system with hazard analysis, HACCP principles, prerequisite programmes and continual improvement.
What FSSC 22000 adds
FSSC 22000 adds a sector-specific prerequisite programme standard (the ISO/TS 22002 series) and its own additional requirements, such as food defence, food fraud mitigation, allergen management, environmental monitoring and food safety culture.
Why the difference matters
FSSC 22000 is recognised by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). ISO 22000 on its own is not. Many international retailers and brand owners accept only GFSI-recognised certificates from their suppliers.
How to decide
If you supply, or plan to supply, international retailers or food brands, choose FSSC 22000. If your customers are local and ask only for a recognised food safety system, ISO 22000 may be enough, and you can upgrade later because the core system is the same.