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Food Safety, Social Sustainability
Food Safety Certification Scheme: FSSC 22000 for food manufacturers, packaging, storage and distribution, animal feed, and catering
Quality Certification: FSSC 24000 for social management systems
The Foundation FSSC (Food Safety System Certification) is a globally recognized non-profit organization headquartered in Gorinchem, Netherlands. As the official scheme owner of the FSSC 22000 and FSSC 24000 certification systems, the foundation plays a critical role in advancing global standards for food safety, quality management, and social responsibility across the entire food supply chain.
With a mission to inspire trust and improve global supply chain integrity through accessible certification solutions, FSSC supports organizations of all sizes to achieve compliance with internationally accepted practices, regulatory requirements, and stakeholder expectations. It works in collaboration with the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), ISO, and various governmental and non-governmental partners to harmonize food safety and social management systems on a global scale.
FSSC owns and manages two major certification schemes:
FSSC 22000 – Food Safety Certification Scheme A robust, ISO-based certification scheme recognized by the GFSI. It is applicable to organizations in:
The scheme integrates:
FSSC 24000 – Social Management System Certification
A newer scheme designed for organizations seeking to implement sustainable, socially responsible management practices in accordance with ISO 26000 guidelines. It targets:
Both schemes are updated regularly through public consultation to ensure alignment with global best practices and changing regulatory frameworks.
FSSC stands out as:
FSSC supports a decentralized, global approach through over 180 licensed certification bodies and more than 30,000 certified sites across 150+ countries.
As of 2023:
FSSC continues to grow, especially in emerging economies, where certification helps open access to international trade and improves national food safety infrastructures.
FSSC certification is applicable to:
The schemes are designed to be scalable, accessible to SMEs, and customizable to specific operational contexts.
FSSC invests in online resources, training programs, and auditor guidance to ensure uniform application of its schemes globally.
These outreach efforts enhance awareness, competence, and accessibility of food and social certification.
FSSC remains a cornerstone of global food system assurance, driving trusted certification solutions that empower producers, enhance supply chain transparency, and protect consumers through systematic risk management and responsible business practices.
