On 3 November 2020, the Foundation FSSC 22000 has published Version 5.1 of its FSSC 22000 certification Scheme. The main reasons for an updated version are compliance with the latest benchmarking requirements of the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) and strengthened requirements for Certification Body (CB) performance as part of continuous improvement.
The GFSI food safety culture requirements specify elements related to employee communication, training, and performance measurement. Since the ISO 22000:2018 standard already covered these topics, the Foundation has released a guidance document to demonstrate how these food safety culture requirements are being met.
In addition, the Foundation has also raised the bar concerning the performance of new and existing CBs. It results in strengthening the Integrity Program requirements for licensing and ongoing performance of Certification Bodies (CBs) to ensure the Foundation will only work with committed partners. Both initiatives will be managed and implemented under the Foundation’s Integrity Program.
ASC Food Safety Consultants has a full set of fully customisable document templates updated to the new FSSC 22000 Version 5.1. available for purchase. +-170 Documents – FSMS manual, policies, procedures, checklists, forms and more…
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Key facts
- Foundation FSSC 22000 published Version 5.1 on 3 November 2020 to comply with the latest benchmarking requirements of the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI).
- The update adds GFSI food safety culture requirements covering employee communication, training, and performance measurement.
- Because ISO 22000:2018 already covered these food safety culture topics, the Foundation released a guidance document showing how the requirements are met.
- Version 5.1 raises the bar on certification body (CB) performance by strengthening Integrity Program requirements for licensing and ongoing CB evaluation.
- ASC Food Safety Consultants offers a full set of customisable document templates (around 170 documents) updated to Version 5.1.
Frequently asked questions
When was FSSC 22000 Version 5.1 released?
FSSC 22000 Version 5.1 was published on 3 November 2020. Foundation FSSC 22000 released it to comply with the latest benchmarking requirements of the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI).
What changed in FSSC 22000 Version 5.1?
Version 5.1 introduced GFSI food safety culture requirements and strengthened certification body (CB) performance standards. The food safety culture requirements address employee communication, training, and performance measurement, while the CB changes strengthen the Foundation's Integrity Program for licensing and ongoing performance.
Do I need to change my system if I already follow ISO 22000:2018?
The food safety culture topics in Version 5.1, such as employee communication, training, and performance measurement, were already covered by the ISO 22000:2018 standard. To bridge the two, the Foundation released a guidance document demonstrating how these food safety culture requirements are being met.
Why did FSSC 22000 release Version 5.1?
Version 5.1 was released to align FSSC 22000 with the latest benchmarking requirements of the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). The update also aims to strengthen the performance of new and existing certification bodies so the Foundation works only with committed partners.
Where can South African businesses get FSSC 22000 Version 5.1 documentation?
ASC Food Safety Consultants offers a full set of fully customisable document templates updated to FSSC 22000 Version 5.1. The set includes around 170 documents such as an FSMS manual, policies, procedures, checklists, and forms, and the consultancy also offers training courses, consulting services, and a free quote.