ISO 22000 is a key international standard that helps maintain the integrity and quality of food from collection to consumption. This standard has helped all entities operating in food chain industries to reduce the likelihood of contamination or otherwise unsafe food and provide vital reassurance across jurisdictions and health authorities.
Who needs ISO 22000 certification?
As an international standard focused specifically on food safety, ISO 22000 should be implemented by any business that is involved in the growth, transport, or production of food and drinks. This standard can not only improve the overall quality of consumable products but is also designed to safeguard customers, or, in simpler terms, you and me.
Here are a few examples of how ISO 22000 can benefit different businesses and organisations:
Food Manufacturing
ISO 22000 can benefit food manufacturing enterprises, both large and small. This internationally-recognised standard provides particular benefits to entities looking to export their products either within the EU or beyond it, as it showcases a commitment to consistent quality and thorough food safety awareness.
Distribution
Food and beverage distribution businesses have a challenging time ensuring product integrity whilst adhering to tight schedules and turnarounds. ISO 22000 can provide a streamlined framework that can be used by each employee and that can help reduce inefficiencies and the costs of spoiled food.
Supermarkets
Grocery shops, supermarkets, and hypermarkets can foster the trust of their clientele by implementing the improvements set out in the ISO 22000 standard. This is achieved in a variety of ways, including quality management that helps to reduce the likelihood of sub-par products.
What’s ISO 22000 all about?
ISO 22000 provides a recognisable standard that sets out a systematic method of analysing food processes. In particular, this standard helps identify potential hazards and critical control points. Having ISO 22000 can help your business expand into new territories, obtaining the necessary approval from health authorities and potential partners.
Key benefits of implementing ISO 22000 include:
- Overall safer food
- Reduced likelihood of food-borne disease
- Improved economic performance with lower waste costs
- Enhanced utilisation of resources on the local and global level
- Effective documentation of techniques, procedures and methods
- One of the closest ways to create a globally-harmonized food standard
- One of the most widely accepted and appropriate system amongst regulators
ISO 22000 requires organisations to commit to continued improvement through monitoring and record-keeping. As a result, it is often a good idea to attain ISO 9001 certification first before seeking to obtain this food quality management system. Together, these two standards can help your business manage risks and take the necessary corrective actions if necessary.
The next step
If you would like to find out more about becoming ISO 22000-certified, you should get in touch with us today.
One of our experts will be able to answer your questions and provide you with a thorough explanation of the entire process.
