ISO 22000 Certification in general refers to the internationally recognized standards which map out the requirements for a food safety management system. It provides a systematic framework that an organization must effectively implement in order to be able to take control of food hazards or potential risks. This will provide assurance that the food is safe and will not result in any other harmful side effects for the consumers.
This standard is implemented and is followed by around 33,000 organizations. So, it is safe to say that those engaged in the food industry have enjoyed plentiful benefits.
The ISO 22000 standard is meant for organizations of all kinds. So, the size of the organizations plays no role in determining whether they can implement the standard or not. All those who are engaged with the food industry can implement this standard for overall better performance.
The requirement of this certification may either be due to legal regulations or due to the fact that consumers are day by day demanding safe food and safe food processes.
Requirements of ISO 22000 Certification
The ISO 22000 standard requires your organization to set in place a Food Management System. This essentially means that a systematic system that is fully documented must be implemented thoroughly throughout the organization which must include:
a) Prerequisite programs that are effective in order to ensure a clean and sanitary work environment.
b) A Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Plan (HACCP) in order to identify and track down potential hazards.
c) A documented Food Safety Management System in order to ensure and manage food safety throughout the organization.
The ISO 22000 standard lays down requirements that must be addressed by the Food Safety Management System. Some of these are as follows:
a) Defining objectives for your organization so that efforts will be driven further in order to comply with the standard.
2) Planning and maintaining records of the management system set in place.
3) Appoint individuals for a Food Safety Team.
4) Having an emergency plan.
5) Conduct regular reviews of the Food Safety Management System.
6) Compliance with the HACCP principles.
7) Establishing traceability and correction systems.
8) Maintaining a regular audit program.
9) Regularly improvising and updating the Food Safety Management System.
On July 19, 2018, the latest version of the ISO 22000 standard has been issued. That is the ISO 22000:2015 standard.
The Benefits of ISO 22000 Certification
The implementation of the ISO 22000 standard is associated with a number of benefits. These include enhanced customer credibility, a positive image, more marketing opportunities, leverage over your competitors, compliance with legal requirements, compatibility with the most popular standard ISO 9001, and all the benefits of HACCP.
The validity of the ISO 22000 Certification is only three years after which you have to again go for recertification.
ISO 22000 Certification Provider In India
When it comes to certification bodies, you have to make sure that you go for one which is licensed or accredited to issue certifications. Do your research and don’t just go for the very first one you hear or see or which pops up in the search results. Take a look at their reputation and reviews and see if they are fit to issue certification for your organization.