FSMS Certificate: The Source Leading to Food Safety Management
An adaptable framework for creating and implementing a food safety management system (FSMS) is provided by ISO 22000 for enterprises. Even though the standard is optional, certain businesses may demand certification before doing business. Companies have the choice to accept particular elements of the standard without pursuing formal certification or to pursue certification.
FSMS Certificate now includes organizational components that are consistent with other ISO management standards following a recent change. These components make it easier to integrate and implement several standards at once. They cover a range of topics, such as:
Any company, regardless of size, that operates in or interacts with the food chain and industry is subject to FSMS Certificate. The following companies are included in this:
- Food transporters,
- Manufacturers of food ingredients and additives,
- Food storage providers,
- Subcontractors of food-related companies.
ISO 22000 Certification can help businesses that aren’t directly related to the food industry, such as those that make equipment, provide packing materials, or provide cleaning products that are utilized in the sector.
Organizations may create effective food safety management systems that are suited to their particular needs and compliant with global standards by adopting ISO 22000:2018 Standards.
Five Important Steps Leading to FSMS Certificate
- Understand Everything Related to ISO 22000 Compliance
Before applying for the FSMS Certificate, a food business in Sri Lanka should understand ISO 22000’s terms and guiding principles.
This international standard outlines the specifications that enterprises’ food safety management systems should satisfy. To comprehend the contents of the standard clearly, read it in its entirety.
- Develop a Food Safety Management System
The ISO 22000 standard offers organizations a structured framework for developing and implementing a Food Safety Management System (FSMS). An organization needs to create a thorough food safety management system (FSMS).
While adherence to the standard is voluntary, certain organizations may demand certification as a prerequisite for collaboration. Consequently, companies have the option to pursue certification or incorporate elements of ISO 22000 FSMS into their operations without undergoing the formal certification process.
This flexibility allows organizations to tailor their approach to food safety management based on their specific needs and requirements.
The design of ISO 22000 FSMS should comply with the standards. This system can help you to assess the following activities within your food business:
- Hazard Analysis
- Risk Assessment
- Control Strategies
These programs are meant to maintain the balance as per the ISO 22000 Food Safety. To achieve the greatest standards of food safety, organizations can also take the below initiatives:
- Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP),
- Good Hygiene Practices (GHP),
- Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP).
- Go for A Gap Analysis
It is important to compare your current food safety management procedures to the ISO 22000 criteria.
When you develop your action plans to close any gaps in your present system’s performance, they will be by identifying different areas. This stage enables you to comprehend the precise alterations and enhancements required to satisfy various criteria of the FSMS Certificate.
- Introduce Requisite Changes as per FSMS Certificate
Based on the gap analysis, it is your responsibility to implement the required changes to align your food safety management system with FSMS Certificate.
This may involve the following practices:
- Revising procedures
- Training staff
- Implementing new controls,
- Documenting all relevant processes.
An ISO 22000-Certified food business in Sri Lanka should make sure that all changes are communicated effectively to its employees.
Additionally, you will train them to understand their roles and responsibilities in maintaining food safety.
- Seek ISO Certification and Undertake ISO 22000 Audits
Once the auditor verifies that the Food Safety Management System (FSMS) adheres to ISO 22000 requirements, Ascent ASSOCIATES will grant certification. To uphold this certification, the organization will undergo annual surveillance audits.
These audits ensure ongoing compliance with ISO 22000 and promote continual improvement of the FSMS. After three years, a comprehensive audit is necessary for recertification.
If any changes occur within the organization during the certification’s time frame, such as expansion, relocation, market entry, or other alterations, the FSMS can be adjusted accordingly to maintain certification, as long as all standard requirements are still met.
In the case of an organization certified under ISO 22000:2005, adjustments to the FSMS should be made to align with the latest version of the standard, ISO 22000:2018. The transition to ISO 22000:2018 can take place during a surveillance audit, recertification audit, or through a separate one-off audit visit.
Conclusion!
In conclusion, implementing a robust food safety management system (FSMS) is of utmost importance in Sri Lanka to ensure the safety and quality of food products. Organizations can take significant steps towards achieving effective food safety management by following a systematic approach and adhering to international standards such as ISO 22000. The key steps outlined in this article provide a roadmap for organizations in Sri Lanka to enhance their food safety practices. These steps include conducting thorough risk assessments, implementing good manufacturing practices, establishing traceability systems, investing in employee training, and engaging in regular inspections and audits. By prioritizing food safety and implementing these steps, Sri Lanka can safeguard consumer health, gain consumer trust, meet regulatory requirements, and open doors to domestic and international markets. It is crucial for organizations in the food industry to recognize the value of a comprehensive FSMS and take proactive measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the food supply chain in Sri Lanka. Through continuous improvement and collaboration between stakeholders, the nation can make significant strides towards achieving a robust food safety management system and safeguarding the health and well-being of its population.
