Ensuring Food Safety at Every Step: ISO 22000 and the Rise of FSSC 22000 V6
- OUS Academy in Switzerland
- Jul 10
- 3 min read
At PINO Switzerland, we champion the highest standards in auditing and certification—especially when it comes to food safety. This week, we spotlight two major developments that reinforce our shared mission: the launch of FSSC 22000 Version 6.0 and the updated FSSC development programme (V2.0), both rooted in the internationally recognized ISO 22000 framework.
What is ISO 22000?
ISO 22000 is the globally accepted standard for food safety management systems, setting out requirements that help organisations identify and control hazards from farm to fork. It bridges prerequisite programmes (PRPs), HACCP principles, and strong system leadership—placing emphasis on communication throughout the entire supply chain. ISO 22000 ensures food remains safe at all stages: production, processing, distribution, and consumption.
FSSC 22000 Version 6.0: A Game‑Changer in Action
Building upon ISO 22000, the FSSC 22000 certification scheme has released Version 6.0, effective since April 1, 2024. This update brings crucial enhancements, reflecting the evolving complexity of modern food safety, such as:
Food Safety Culture & Leadership – More responsibility is placed on top management to lead by example and foster a culture of transparency and accountability.
Equipment Management & Hygienic Design – Firms must now ensure equipment is designed, maintained, and documented to prevent contamination.
Comprehensive Hazard Control – Improved mechanisms to prevent food fraud and unsafe practices.
Waste Reduction & Sustainability – Version 6.0 aligns food safety with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly by addressing food loss, waste, and environmental concerns.
Certification Process Evolution – Audits now include the updated requirements from ISO 22003-1:2022, and audit durations have been recalibrated.
These changes mean that certified organisations must now take a broader, more integrated approach—blending safety, sustainability, and corporate culture into one cohesive system. Version 6.0 isn’t just a technical upgrade; it’s a transformation in how food safety is built and sustained.
FSSC Development Programme v2.0: Supporting SME Growth
On May 20, 2025, FSSC introduced Version 2.0 of its Development Programme—designed to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) adopt certified systems more easily. Key updates include:
Inclusion of Packaging Sector – Adds Category I to the scheme’s scope.
Simplified Conformity Levels – Transitioning to one coherent level focused on ISO 22000 compliance.
Guidance & Support – Enhanced training materials, webinars, and clearer documentation to guide SMEs through certification.
Extended Transition Period – Version 1.1 remains valid until May 31, 2026, giving businesses ample time to adapt
At PINO Switzerland, we welcome this development. It strengthens our ability to support diverse organisations—especially smaller producers—on their journey to safe and reliable food systems.
Why These Updates Matter for the Entire Supply Chain
Enhanced Consumer Trust – Tighter control over hazards, equipment, and fraud creates more confidence in product safety.
Market Access – Certified compliance with FSSC 22000 V6 makes businesses more attractive to retailers and international buyers.
Sustainability Integration – Linking food safety with waste reduction and UN goals responds to both consumer and regulatory expectations.
Inclusive Growth – Simplified pathways for SMEs ensure that even small players can robustly manage food safety.
PINO Switzerland’s Role as Inspection Body
As an accredited inspection body, PINO Switzerland will:
Update our auditors’ training to cover equipment hygiene, leadership, and sustainability elements.
Guide clients through the FSSC 22000 V6 auditing process and ensure their management systems reflect the new ethos—not only technically prepared but culturally embedded.
Support SMEs aiming for FSSC Development Program v2.0, offering tailored workshops and guidance to simplify their transition.
Final Thoughts
These updates affirm a pivotal shift in food safety—where standards are no longer just about compliance, but about real-world impact, culture, and sustainability. At PINO Switzerland, we stand ready to support organisations of all sizes in meeting— and exceeding—these elevated expectations.
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