The latest version of the FSSC 22000 certification scheme—FSSC 22000 Version 6—has gone into effect as of March 31, 2024. The scheme was announced on April 1, 2023, and industry was allotted a 12-month transition period.

The new version of the standard brings significant changes impacting food production companies and the certification process by integrating requirements of ISO22003-1: 2022, and Strengthens the requirements to support organizations in their contributions to meeting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN’s SDGs). Key changes include:

• Realignment of Food Chain Categories: FSSC 22000 Version 6 introduces changes to food chain categories according to ISO22003-1:2022. The updated scheme adds two new categories: BIII, the pre-process handling of plant products, and C0, which focuses on animal primary conversion. The pet food production categories have been removed and Pet food is now covered in categories C and D. Transport has been merged in Category G. Finally, trading and broking is also added in Category FII. As a result, some organizations will change toward a different food safety category.
• FSSC 22000 Additional Requirements: The additional requirements in Version 6 include more detailed clauses on integration of the requirements on food safety and quality culture, validation/verification of packaging claims, criteria for using recycled materials, more detailed allergen management, environmental monitoring, quality control, purchase and installation of new equipment, and handling of food loss and waste.
• Audit Duration: Due to changes in the accreditation document ISO22003-1: 2022 and the additional requirements, the audit time for FSSC 22000 audits will need to be revised. For many organizations, the audit time will increase.