FSSC foundation recently made a significant move in food safety management systems with the release of Version 6 of the FSSC 22000 scheme on 31 March 2023. The new standard brings big changes for food production companies and certification. It now includes requirements from ISO22003-1:2022 and strengthens rules to help organisations contribute to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN’s SDGs).
This marks a significant milestone in food safety management and the industry was allotted a 12-month transition period.
In this blog, we shed light on the key changes introduced in the FSSC 22000 scheme and how can they shape food safety in Australia.
Factors that Motivated Release of Version 6 of the FSSC 22000 Scheme
The latest update to the FSSC 22000 scheme, Version 6, was motivated by several key factors.
1) To start with, it integrates the requirements in ISO 22003-1:2022, ensuring alignment with global standards and best practices.
2) Furthermore, it strengthens the scheme’s requirements to empower organisations in their efforts to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underscoring the importance of sustainability and social responsibility in food safety management.
3) To conclude, Version 6 incorporates valuable feedback gathered through a comprehensive development survey, which garnered nearly 2000 responses from stakeholders across the industry.
Key Changes in Version 6:
Some key changes introduced in Version 6 of the FSSC 22000 scheme are as follows:
1) Realignment of Food Chain Categories
Food Chain Categories Update: In FSSC 22000 Version 6, changes have been made to food chain categories based on ISO22003-1:2022. This update introduces two new categories: BIII for pre-processing plant products and C0 for primary animal conversion.
Pet food production categories have been removed, and now pet food falls under categories C and D. Transport has been combined into Category G, and trading and broking are now part of Category FII. These changes mean some organisations will switch to a different food safety category.
2) Additional Requirements:
Version 6 of FSSC 22000 includes more detailed requirements. These cover integrating food safety and quality culture, validating/verifying packaging claims, using recycled materials, managing allergens, environmental monitoring, quality control, purchasing and installing new equipment, and handling food loss and waste.
3) Audit Duration:
Due to updates in ISO22003-1:2022 and additional requirements, the audit time for FSSC 22000 audits will need to be adjusted. For many organisations, this means longer audit times.
1) Expansion of the scope to include Trading and Brokering (FII), while removing Farming and FSSC 22000-Quality from the scheme.
2) Integration of requirements about food safety and quality culture.
3) Introduction of new requirements on quality control, food loss and waste, and equipment management.
4) Strengthening of existing additional requirements, such as allergen management and environmental monitoring.
5) Amendments and clarifications to the Certification Process requirements.
6) Inclusion of a QR Code on FSSC 22000 certificates for enhanced traceability and transparency.
Time Period for Businesses to Transition to Version 6
To facilitate a smooth transition to Version 6, the Foundation has provided a 12-month window, allowing organisations to prepare for the new requirements, and Certification Bodies (CBs) to implement the changes and obtain accreditation.
Audits under Version 6 will commence from 1 April 2024 onwards, with all organisations required to undergo the V6 upgrade audit before 31 March 2025.
To assist stakeholders in navigating the transition process, the Foundation has published a Version 6 Upgrade Process document outlining the transition requirements, along with a detailed comparison highlighting the changes between Version 5.1 and Version 6 of the scheme.
Role of FSSC in Food Safety Management
As a pioneer in this field, FSSC has consistently provided industry-leading standards that uphold trust and drive impact within the Consumer Goods Industry. These schemes play a vital role in helping organisations implement robust management systems, safeguard their brands, and achieve their food safety objectives.
Moreover, the Foundation is committed to supporting organisations in contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), thereby fostering a better world for all.
Thus, by aligning with global standards, strengthening sustainability initiatives, and incorporating stakeholder feedback, FSSC continues to drive excellence and innovation in the industry, ensuring safer and more sustainable food systems for all.
So are you keen to enhance your management systems and introduce improvised food safety at your organisation?
Anitech’s experienced food safety consultants can help you transition smoothly to version 6 of the FSSC scheme.
Call us today at 1300 802 163 or e-mail – sales@anitechgroup.com.
Remember you aren’t just implementing measures for food safety but setting the foundation for cementing quality and consumer trust.
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