FSSC 22000 is an international framework in which a third party audits and certifies a food safety management system. It combines the management system requirements of ISO 22000, sector-specific Prerequisite Programs (PRPs), and additional FSSC requirements.[1] Because it audits both hazard management and organizational operations, it should not be interpreted as a higher-level certification that replaces HACCP.

Example of comparing purchase conditions and evidence item by item. Stock photo for illustrative purposes only; it does not prove Samsam Products’ products, facilities, certifications, or Korean-origin raw materials.
Photo: Jakub Żerdzicki / Unsplash · License

Distinguishing the roles of HACCP, ISO 22000, and PRP

The Version 7 structure for food manufacturing consists of ISO 22000:2018, the common PRP ISO 22002-100:2025, the manufacturing sector’s ISO 22002-1:2025, and additional FSSC requirements.[2] Here, PRPs cover basic conditions such as cleaning and hygiene, pest control, equipment, and the working environment. Manufacturing standards cannot be applied directly to other food chain categories.

Version 7 transition schedule is reflected in certification decisions

Version 7 was released on May 1, 2026, and Version 6 audits are permitted until April 30, 2027. Version 7 upgrade audits will take place from May 1, 2027, to April 30, 2028.[2] During this transition period, a Version 6 certificate should not be deemed invalid based solely on the version name. You must also check the validity period, Public Register status, applicable standards, and the transition plan.

Compare the certificate and official registration in order

1. Compare the organization name and manufacturing site address.
2. Read whether the Scope Statement connects to the purchased products and processes.
3. Check the category, certification body, accreditation body, applicable standards, and version.
4. Verify the status and scope in the Public Register using the company name or COID.[3]
5. If the register and certificate differ, contact Foundation FSSC or the certification body.

Do not extend the verified certification scope to the entire legal entity. Domestic HACCP also requires separate verification; for the items to check, refer to How to Verify a Fishery Products HACCP Certificate.

Separate system certification from delivery lots

FSSC 22000 audits supplier management, food defense, and food fraud mitigation within the management system. However, it does not guarantee the origin, specifications, temperature, or sensory quality of a specific lot. When approving deliveries, refer to the 12-Point Checklist for Oyster and Seafood Suppliers and separately verify specifications, inspections, traceability, and cold chain records.

When contacting Samsam Products, please provide the product and intended use, monthly volume, the required FSSC certification scope, and the official registration and lot documents to be verified. Trading terms must be confirmed at the time of inquiry.

Frequently Asked Questions

If we have FSSC 22000, do we not need to separately check whether HACCP applies?

That cannot be assumed. Even though FSSC incorporates HACCP principles, you must separately verify the HACCP applicability under domestic regulations and for the traded items.

In 2026, are only Version 7 certificates valid?

No. Version 6 audits are permitted until April 30, 2027. Check the status, validity period, and transition plan.[2]

Is ISO 22000 certification the same as FSSC 22000 certification?

They are not the same. FSSC is a Scheme that combines ISO 22000 with the PRPs for the relevant category and additional FSSC requirements.[1]

What should I do if the certificate and Public Register information differ?

If the site, scope, COID, or status differ, contact the certification body or Foundation FSSC.[3]

Even if a company is FSSC-certified, do I still need to receive delivery lot documents separately?

Yes. Even if the lot is within the certification scope, you must separately verify that the delivery lot meets the contract specifications. Request origin, specifications, temperature, inspection, and traceability records according to the contract.

Sources and Verification Criteria

[1] FSSC 22000 Food Safety Certification Scheme
https://www.fssc.com/fssc-22000
Scheme structure comprising ISO 22000, ISO 22002 sector-specific PRPs, and additional FSSC requirements · Accessed 2026-09-27

[2] General FAQs for FSSC 22000 Version 7
https://www.fssc.com/fssc-22000/version-7-faq/
Version 7’s ISO 22002-100:2025 and sector-specific 22002-x structure, and the 2026-2028 transition schedule · Accessed 2026-09-27

[3] How to Check the Authenticity of Your FSSC 22000 Certificate
https://www.fssc.com/insights/how-to-check-the-authenticity-of-your-fssc-22000-certificate/
How to verify the certificate’s normative documents, certification body, and accreditation body, and how to validate via the Public Register and COID · Accessed 2026-09-27