ISO 22000: Food Safety Management System (FSMS)

Why ISO 22000 Matters

Food safety is not optional—it's a critical responsibility. ISO 22000 is designed to proactively address and manage food safety hazards before they become problems. It does so by integrating the principles of HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) with the high-level structure of ISO management systems, promoting a culture of continual improvement and accountability.

By becoming ISO 22000 certified, your organization signals to partners, regulators, and consumers that food safety is embedded in every process and decision. It demonstrates not only regulatory compliance but also a proactive commitment to risk mitigation, traceability, and transparency across the entire food supply chain.

Core Components of ISO 22000:

• Interactive Communication: Fosters effective, timely, and transparent communication both internally and throughout the food chain to identify and control hazards collaboratively

• System Management: Uses the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle to integrate food safety into overall business strategy and operations

• Prerequisite Programs (PRPs): Establishes a hygienic foundation including sanitation, pest control, and personnel hygiene essential for safe food handling

• HACCP Principles: Systematically identifies, evaluates, and controls food safety hazards using risk assessment and defined critical control points

Benefits of ISO 22000 Certification:

• Builds trust with customers and stakeholders through credible, independently verified food safety practices

• Ensures compliance with local, national, and international regulatory requirements

• Demonstrates alignment with Codex Alimentarius HACCP guidelines and ISO frameworks

• Reduces the likelihood and impact of foodborne illnesses, product recalls, and liability claims

• Enhances operational efficiency, traceability, and responsiveness to incidents across the supply chain

• Improves access to global markets and major retail chains requiring certified food safety systems

Who Should Implement ISO 22000?

ISO 22000 is suitable for all organizations—regardless of size or position in the supply chain—that are involved in any aspect of food production or handling. This includes:

• Food and beverage manufacturers

• Ingredient suppliers

• Packaging material producers

• Agricultural and livestock operations

• Storage and transportation providers

• Wholesalers and retailers

• Catering and food service providers

How to Get Started

1. Gap Analysis – Assess your current food safety practices against ISO 22000 requirements to identify areas for improvement.

2. Training – Build internal competency through HACCP and ISO 22000 training for relevant personnel.

3. System Development – Develop or update your food safety manual, documentation, and procedures to meet standard requirements.

4. Internal Audit & Management Review – Validate readiness and drive top management involvement through periodic reviews.

5. Certification Audit – Engage an accredited certification body to conduct the audit and confirm compliance.

Why Choose Wintersmith Advisory?

At Wintersmith Advisory, we bring unmatched clarity, efficiency, and strategic insight to ISO 22000 implementation. Our advisors offer end-to-end support—from initial gap assessment and HACCP plan creation to audit preparation and beyond. Whether you're new to food safety standards or upgrading from another system, we help you build a robust FSMS that delivers measurable results.

Take the first step toward certification and food safety excellence.

Book your free consultation or contact us today to get started.