According to Foundation FSSC, Version 7 also incorporates elements of the Save Food Packaging design principles to support food loss and waste reduction.

Scope of GFSI Recognition for FSSC 22000 Version 7

GFSI recognition of FSSC 22000 Version 7 covers the following food chain categories:

• BIII: Pre-process Handling of Plant Products

• C0: Animal Primary Conversion

• CI: Processing of Perishable Animal Products

• CII: Processing of Perishable Plant Products

• CIII: Processing of Perishable Animal and Plant Products (Mixed Products)

• CIV: Processing of Ambient Stable Animal and Plant Products (Mixed Products)

• D: Production of Feed

• G: Provision of Storage and Distribution Services

• I: Production of Food Packaging

• K: Production of (Bio) Chemicals and Bio-cultures Used as Food Ingredients or Processing Aids in Food Production.

Key Updates to FSSC 22000 Version 7

Foundation FSSC identified several primary objectives behind the development of Version 7, including:

• Incorporating the updated ISO 22002 series of prerequisite program standards

• Aligning the certification scheme with GFSI Benchmarking Requirements Version 2024

• Strengthening requirements to support organizations' contributions to the UN SDGs

• Establishing a more clearly defined structure for food chain categories and subcategories

• Implementing editorial amendments and other improvements to the certification scheme.

FSSC 22000 Version 7 Transition Timeline

Foundation FSSC has established a 12-month transition period for certified organizations to upgrade from FSSC 22000 Version 6 to Version 7.

Audits against Version 6 will be permitted until April 30, 2027. Upgrade audits against Version 7 must be conducted between May 1, 2027, and April 30, 2028.

The transition process will follow an approach similar to the previous upgrade to FSSC 22000 Version 6.