ISO 22000 Certification

What is ISO 22000?

ISO 22000 is an international standard that specifies the requirements for a Food Safety Management System, helping organisations ensure food safety throughout the food chain.

• Standard: ISO 22000 (Food Safety Management System)
• Based On: HACCP principles and prerequisite programmes
• Issued By: Certification Bodies accredited by accreditation boards
• Applicable To: All organisations in the food chain
• Validity: Generally 3 years, with annual surveillance audits

Difference Between IAF and Non-IAF Certification

A key consideration when getting ISO certified is whether the certificate is IAF or Non-IAF accredited. The table below explains the difference:

Note: For most food businesses, especially manufacturers and exporters, an IAF-accredited certificate is recommended. To decide what suits you, connect with our executive.

Why is ISO 22000 Certification Important?

• Food Safety: Ensures food is safe throughout the food chain
• Hazard Control: Identifies and controls food safety hazards (HACCP)
• Consumer Trust: Builds confidence among customers and buyers
• Global Recognition: Internationally recognised standard (with IAF accreditation)
• Export Opportunities: Often required for exporting food products
• Legal Compliance: Supports compliance with food safety laws
• Competitive Advantage: Differentiates your business in the market
• Reduced Risk: Lowers the risk of contamination and recalls

Who Needs ISO 22000 Certification?

• Food manufacturers and processors
• Dairy, meat, poultry and seafood units
• Packaged food and beverage companies
• Restaurants, hotels and catering services
• Food packaging and storage companies
• Food transporters and distributors
• Food retailers and supermarkets
• Exporters and importers of food products

Documents Required for ISO 22000 Certification

• Business registration / incorporation proof
• PAN Card of the business / applicant
• GST registration certificate (if applicable)
• FSSAI registration / licence (as applicable)
• Address proof of the business premises
• Details of food products and processes
• Letterhead and company profile / visiting card
• Nature and scope of work to be certified

Our ISO 22000 Certification Process

1. Consultation: Understand your scope and certification needs (IAF / Non-IAF)
2. Application: Submit the application with the required details
3. Documentation: Prepare the FSMS documentation and HACCP plan (as required)
4. Gap Analysis: Identify gaps against ISO 22000 requirements (where applicable)
5. Audit: The Certification Body conducts the assessment/audit
6. Review: Address any non-conformities raised during the audit
7. Certificate Issuance: The ISO 22000 certificate is granted
8. Surveillance: Annual surveillance audits maintain the certification

Benefits of ISO 22000 Certification

• Safe Food: Ensures consistent food safety standards
• Enhanced Credibility: Builds trust with customers and buyers
• Market Access: Helps qualify for exports, tenders and new markets
• Regulatory Compliance: Easier compliance with food safety laws
• Reduced Risk: Lowers the risk of contamination and recalls
• Better Reputation: Strengthens image as a safe food provider
• Continual Improvement: Drives ongoing food safety improvement

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is ISO 22000?

It is the international standard for a Food Safety Management System (FSMS) that helps organisations ensure food safety throughout the food chain. For your business, connect with our executive.

Q2. What is the difference between IAF and Non-IAF certification?

An IAF-accredited certificate is issued by a body accredited under the International Accreditation Forum and is globally recognised, while a Non-IAF certificate has limited recognition. IAF is recommended for exporters and tenders.

Q3. Is ISO 22000 the same as HACCP?

ISO 22000 incorporates HACCP principles within a broader management system framework. HACCP focuses specifically on hazard analysis, while ISO 22000 covers the entire FSMS.

Q4. Is FSSAI required along with ISO 22000?

FSSAI registration/licence is a legal requirement for food businesses in India, while ISO 22000 is a voluntary management system certification. They complement each other.

Q5. How long is the ISO 22000 certificate valid?

The certificate is generally valid for 3 years, subject to annual surveillance audits.

Q6. Can small food businesses get ISO 22000 certified?

Yes. ISO 22000 is suitable for organisations of any size in the food chain, including small food businesses.

Q7. How long does certification take?

The timeline depends on the size of the organisation and the type of certificate. For more details, connect with our executive.

Ready to Get ISO 22000 Certified?

Contact us today for fast and hassle-free ISO 22000 certification (IAF / Non-IAF) assistance!