Adapting to the New Landscape: FSSC 22000 V6 for Food and Beverage in the Middle East

The food and beverage industry in the Middle East is experiencing remarkable growth.  With this expansion comes a heightened focus on food safety, and globally recognized standards like FSSC 22000 play a critical role.

We crafted this article to navigate food and beverage businesses in the UAE, KSA, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Lebanon, Jordan, Pakistan through the nuances of the updated FSSC 22000 version 6, customized for entities within the region's food and beverage supply chain.

What is FSSC 22000?

FSSC 22000 is a globally recognized Food Safety Management System (FSMS) certification scheme.  It builds upon the foundation of ISO 22000, incorporating additional requirements specific to the food and beverage industry.

Achieving FSSC 22000 certification demonstrates your commitment to robust food safety practices, enhancing customer confidence, brand reputation, and market access.

Understanding FSSC 22000 Version 6: Key Changes and Transition

The updated FSSC 22000 version 6 introduces several significant changes aimed at enhancing food safety management systems:

• Realignment of Food Chain Categories: The categories have been updated in line with the latest ISO 22003-1:2022 standards.
• Expansion of Scope: The scope now includes Trading and Brokering (FII), broadening the coverage of this certification.
• Streamlining Standards: The removal of Farming and FSSC 22000-Quality simplifies the certification landscape.
• Culture and Quality Integration: New requirements for integrating food safety and quality culture are emphasized.
• Enhanced Quality Controls: Additions include new standards for quality control, management of food loss and waste, equipment management, and additional communication requirements.
• Strengthened Additional Requirements: Updates in Part 2 include enhanced allergen management, environmental monitoring, hazard control and measures for preventing cross contamination.
• Certification Process Enhancements: Modifications clarify certification process requirements, improving understanding and implementation.
• Improved Traceability: A new QR code on certificates enhances traceability and verification processes.

These changes reflect a comprehensive approach to evolving food safety standards, ensuring more robust systems for managing risks and maintaining quality in the food supply chain.

SGS: Your Expert Partner for FSSC 22000 V6 Certification in Middle East

As a leading certification body with an active presence across the Middle East countries like UAE, KSA, Pakistan, Oman, Kuwait, Lebanon, Jordan, Qatar and Bahrain, SGS offers comprehensive support throughout your FSSC 22000 journey:

• Gap Analysis: Our experts assess your existing FSMS against the new version 6 requirements, identifying areas for improvement.
• Tailored Training: We offer a range of training programs to equip your personnel with the knowledge and skills to implement version 6 effectively. Our training includes FSSC 22000 6.0 transition, Implementation, Awareness, Lead Auditor, and Internal Auditor courses.
• Certification Audits: SGS conducts audits against FSSC 22000 version 6, ensuring compliance and granting certification upon successful completion.
• Local Expertise: Our extensive network of offices and food safety specialists in the Middle East offers region-specific insights and support.

Transition Timeline for FSSC 22000 V6

The transition period for existing FSSC 22000 version 5.1 certifications has ended (March 31, 2024).  From now on, organizations seeking certification for the first time or those previously certified against version 5.1 will need to comply with the new requirements of version 6.

FSSC 22000 Version 6 FAQs

1. How does FSSC 22000 Version 6 integrate into an Integrated Management System (IMS)?

It integrates seamlessly due to its alignment with the ISO harmonized structure and includes additional requirements that support UN Sustainable Development Goals.

2. Is the audit preparation and reporting time still the same as for V5.1?

The preparation time remains the same. However, for V6, the reporting time has been increased to at least 1.0 auditor days (8 working hours) to ensure sufficient time is provided for auditors to construct the audit report following the requirements of Annex 2 of the Scheme.

3. Can a full remote audit be conducted under FSSC 22000 Version 6?

A full remote audit is generally not permissible unless specific conditions are met, with an exception for certain surveillance audits in the Trading and Brokering category.

4. Are there new measures in Version 6 to ensure certificate authenticity?

Yes, a new QR code on certificates and the existing COID system have been introduced to enhance traceability and verification.

5. When will audits for Version 6 start?

Audits based on Version 5.1 of the FSSC 22000 Scheme could be conducted by Certification Bodies until March 31, 2024. From April 1, 2024, all audits for FSSC 22000 Scheme are to be conducted as per Version 6.  Upgrade audits for already certified organizations will have to be completed by March 31, 2025.

6. If our organization begins FSSC 22000 certification in 2024, do we need to use the same version for both Stage 1 and Stage 2 audits?

Yes, if your organization undergoes Stage 1 and Stage 2 audits from April 1, 2024, both audits need to be conducted under Version 6 of the FSSC 22000 Scheme.

7. What happens if my organization's certificate isn't upgraded to Version 6 by the end of the V5.1 period?

If the upgrade to Version 6 isn't completed by May 31, 2025, all remaining V5.1 certificates will automatically be marked as withdrawn on the FSSC Assurance Platform. Consequently, these certificates will no longer appear on the FSSC 22000 public register on the organization's website.

Taking the Next Step!

Understanding the complexities of the new FSSC 22000 version 6 is crucial for businesses in the dynamic Middle Eastern food and beverage sector.

Contact us for more information.

About SGS

We are SGS – the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories around the world.