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In June we saw the release of the latest version of the Food Safety Management Standard, ISO 22000.
The new version brings about some great changes, but does not change its focus – ISO 22000 is still intended to control, prevent and remove food-borne hazards throughout the food production process to the point of consumption.
With the changes to the Standard, the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) has reinforced the fact that food safety is something that can only be maintained through a combined effort of everyone that is involved in food production, from government to food producers, retailers to consumers.
The main three changes to the Standard were:
- Making it easier to understand – ISO 22000 now follows the Annex SL structure used by some of the most popular Standards such as ISO 9001
- A different focus on risk – the Standard now views risk from a different perspective, distinguishing between operational and business level risks
- Strong links to other food safety guidelines – ISO 22000 now includes guidelines from food groups such as the Codex Alimentarius of the United Nations
What actions should you take?
If you are currently certified to ISO 22000 : 2005, your long term goal should be to upgrade your Management System to comply with ISO 22000 : 2018, by 2021. You should then seek certification which will demonstrate to customers that you have put best-practice food safety management processes in place.
Do you need help?
Upgrading a Management System can seem like a daunting task but you are not alone – QMS can support you throughout the entire process. If you already have an ISO 22000 Management System in place which is certified by QMS, rest assured that we will be in contact with you to discuss your options in the coming months.
To find out more about the upgrade or to discuss your ISO 22000 requirements, please contact one of our experienced Certification Development Consultants on 0333 344 3646 or email our team.
