Credibility is essential to food safety. In addition, if a business wants to follow international food safety standards, FSSC 22000 is one of the best certifications it can get. However, certification is more than just passing audits. Selecting the appropriate accreditation organization is the matter at hand. Even with strong systems, picking the incorrect certifier can harm your reputation, waste your time, and deplete your resources. In this article, we’ll cover all the essentials about FSSC 22000 certifiers in India, including who they are, how to select the best one, and why it’s so important.
Why your certifier is as important as your system
In India, a large number of firms provide FSSC 22000 audits. However, not all of them are trustworthy or acceptable. Only a limited group of people is allowed by the FSSC 22000 certification bodies in India, and they must be registered by respectable organizations.
The company that issues your certificate matters a lot. If they aren’t properly licensed, buyers, distributors, or even government bodies might not accept your certification. Especially if you’re exporting, working with a NABCB-approved certifier is vital.
For small food businesses, mistakes are not tolerated in this industry. Choosing the correct spouse might spare you months of worry.
Read more: FSSC 22000 Certification Cost In 2025 For All Factory Sizes
How to find FSSC 22000 certification body in India
Begin with two filters: Accreditation and FSSC 22000 approval.
In India, certification organizations must be accredited by NABCB (National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies). NABCB is the legitimate authority in charge of making sure that certifiers follow international regulations. However, that’s insufficient. They must also receive FSSC approval, which maintains a list of accredited certification organizations throughout the world.
The official website for the FSSC 22000 contains this list. Check if the agency is listed for India and if their transfer covers your sector, such as food production, packaging, transportation, etc.
Check these other things as well:
- What is the certifier’s experience in the food industry?
- Have they given companies like yours their seal of approval?
- Do they have a local support system?
- Do they have a reputation for hidden fees or late audits?
Top food safety certification agencies in India
1. Bureau Veritas
They have a significant presence in India and have been involved in food certification for many years. Well-known for their organized audits and transparent reporting.
2. SGS India
A worldwide brand with extensive knowledge of the food business. Their auditors are well-trained and renowned for helping customers navigate the process with minimal hand-holding.
3. DNV Business Assurance India
One of the most reputable certifiers, especially for producers and big processing facilities. Among export consumers, DNV enjoys a great deal of respect.
4. Intertek India
Well-established and quick-moving. Ideal for medium-sized businesses seeking dependability and excellent IT help.
5. TÜV SÜD South Asia
They have generated excellent work in several fields, including the food industry. Their teams’ technical expertise and rigor could be quite helpful if you want to create a strong system.
6. TÜV Rheinland
One more GFSI-approved certifier with Indian offices. Ideal for companies that specialize in ingredients, logistics, and packaging.
All of these have FSSC certification and are included in the List of NABCB-accredited FSSC 22000 certification agencies in India. You can rely on their credentials to stand up in any part of the world.
ISO and FSSC 22000 certifiers in India trust
ISO 22000 and FSSC 22000 are not the same, which is a fact that many people overlook. FSSC is GFSI-certified, which is now required by the majority of international purchasers, and it expands upon the framework established by ISO 22000. This indicates that not all ISO certifiers are permitted to grant FSSC certificates.
Be cautious not to mistake FSSC-approved ISO certifiers for generic ones. While some certifiers in India provide both, they guarantee that your food category has received FSSC approval.
What this means is: don’t just ask “Do you offer FSSC 22000?”, ask “Are you approved by FSSC to certify companies in my sector?” The answer will tell you everything.
Read more: FSSC 22000 Vs ISO 22000 Vs BRCGS: What’s Best For Your Plant?
Best certification body for FSSC 22000 for food manufacturers in India
No certifier is the “best” for everyone. It all comes down to making the right decision based on:
- The size of your factory
- The type of product you sell
- Your aims for exporting
- The amount of your budget
- The extent to which you are prepared for an audit
DNV, SGS, and Bureau Veritas, on the other hand, are frequently selected by medium-to-large manufacturers because of their knowledge of complex audits and transparency throughout the supply chain. Smaller food firms may benefit from the increased support and flexibility offered by Intertek or TÜV SÜD.
Here’s a piece of advice: before finalizing any certifier, ask for at least two client references in your industry. If they hesitate or dodge, think twice.
Who provides FSSC 22000 certificates for small food businesses in India
The cost and hand-holding are extremely important for small businesses, particularly for startups or regional food units. You could not have a large QA staff or prior audit expertise.
In India, thankfully, FSSC 22000 certification bodies in india have begun to provide scaled audit services. This implies the same criteria, but with a modified audit scope and price for smaller units.
Bureau Veritas, TÜV SÜD, Intertek, and other certifiers frequently collaborate with smaller enterprises. Some packages also include gap assessment or pre-audit help. Simply ensure that these services do not jeopardize the objectivity of the ultimate audit.
Certification Body Accreditation Matters More Than You Think
Let’s be blunt: anyone can print a certificate. However, it will not stand unless it originates from a well-accredited institution.
A certifier is NABCB-approved when they have been subjected to their audit, including their integrity, systems, and auditor competency. They are not worth your time if they are not included on the NABCB list.
Not only does accreditation safeguard your name, though. It safeguards your capacity to sell to big retailers, stick to export regulations, and stay out of legal trouble in the future.
For this reason, you should only think about FSSC 22000 certification bodies in India that have both FSSC approval and NABCB accreditation.
Why Choosing the Right FSSC 22000 Certifier Matters
Price is not the only consideration when choosing a certifying body. They are a long-term partner in your journey toward food safety. As a result, attempt to examine their past, permissions, and approach.
If you’re serious about getting certified, don’t start with quotations or forms. Trust is the first step.
Choosing an FSSC 22000 certification bodies in India that is NABCB-accredited is the best way to ensure compliance, safety, and peace of mind for your business.
Thinking about FSSC 22000 certification? Let’s get you started
Don’t rely on fate for your certification. Allow Legal4sure to assist you in finding NABCB-approved FSSC 22000 certification bodies in India that suit your sector, size, and financial constraints.
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FAQs
1. Why is NABCB approval important for FSSC 22000 certification?
NABCB (National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies) ensures that certifiers follow proper standards, use qualified auditors, and operate ethically. If your certifier is NABCB-approved, your FSSC 22000 certificate will be accepted worldwide.
2. Can any ISO 22000 certifier give FSSC 22000 certification?
No. Only certifiers that are officially licensed and accredited for FSSC 22000 can issue the certificate. Always check the NABCB site or the official FSSC website before selecting your certifier.
3. How long does it take to get FSSC 22000 certified in India?
It usually takes 2 to 6 months. The exact time depends on the readiness of your documents, the preparation of your team, and the availability of your certifier. Some offer a pre-audit to help speed things up.
4. What does FSSC 22000 certification cost for small food businesses?
For smaller factories, the cost typically ranges from ₹1.5 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh. It depends on your plant size, the complexity of the audit, and the certifier you select. Some certifiers also allow you to pay in instalments to make it easier.
