In today’s competitive food industry, food packaging is not just a presentation; in fact, it is a major tool in protecting the safety and quality of food products. That’s when FSSC 22000 certification for food packaging plays a crucial role. This globally recognized certification standard is made to guarantee that food packaging materials meet the highest safety and hygiene requirements. But, do you know what are the most important food safety rules?
Major safety rules for food packaging that you must know!
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Implement HACCP plan
The one important safety rule is HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points). This plan finds and reduces the chances of any risks that can lead to unsafe food. This ensures that food companies keep food safe for everyone.
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Prevent cross contamination
Separate areas should be maintained for raw materials, production, and finished goods. Equipment and tools must be cleaned and sanitized frequently to avoid cross-contamination.
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Guarantee proper traceability and labelling
Every batch of packaging material should be clearly labeled and traceable back to its source. This is important for recalls and is a core requirement of FSSC 22000 for food packaging systems.
What is FSSC 22000 Certification for Food Packaging?
FSSC 22000 certification for food packaging is a global certificate that helps companies make safe packaging. It follows ISO 22000 rules and has extra safety steps for different types of packaging.
Who needs this certification?
Global recognized certification for food packaging is for companies that make packaging materials like plastic, paper, metal, and glass. When a company gets FSSC 22000, it proves that its packaging is safe and meets international food safety standards.
Aspects of FSSC 22000 for Food Packaging
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Primary and Secondary Packaging
Make sure all packaging, whether it touches the food directly or not, is safe.
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Smart Safety Measures
Finds possible issues in packaging and takes steps to prevent them.
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Works Hand in Hand with ISO 22000
Works well with other food safety rules already in place.
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Accepted Globally
Trusted by stores, food makers, and government agencies around the world.
Benefits of FSSC 22000 Certification for Food Packaging
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Keeping Food Safe for Everyone
Packaging must always be totally clean with safety intact to be ready for direct food use.
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Global Entry
The Global Entry Program enhances international business sales through international safety compliance.
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Good Name
FSSC 22000 certification establishes a positive brand image because it proves food safety management’s dedication to customers.
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Finding and fixing problems
The system detects packaging dangers beforehand, and it becomes a problem while performing fixes simultaneously.
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Go Green Goals
The goals of Go Green support business packaging using sustainable materials while maintaining responsible environmental practices.
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Staying Legal and Safe
The system maintains complete compliance with food safety regulations as well as industry requirements.
Learn how FSSC 22000 can help your packaging business achieve global compliance. Fill out our enquiry form today!
ISO vs. FSSC 22000 for Packaging: which is better for you?
Parameters |
ISO 22000 |
FSSC 22000 |
| Coverage and Use | A generic food safety management standard applies to all organizations in the food chain, regardless of size or sector. | A sector-specific scheme based on ISO 22000, modified specifically as a guide for food manufacturers and processors. |
| Extra Rules | No additional requirements are explicitly covered in ISO 22000. | Includes additional requirements, such as food defense, food fraud prevention, and allergen management |
| Certification Bodies | It can be certified by any accredited certification body. | Certification is only granted by certification bodies approved by the Foundation for Food Safety Certification |
| Recognition by GFSI | ISO 22000 is not automatically GFSI recognized but can be used to achieve GFSI recognition. | Recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative, sets global food safety standards benchmarks. |
| Industry-Specific Sections | Generic standard without specific industry modules. | Offers sector-specific modules that address the unique requirements of different food industry segments. |
Requirements of FSSC 22000 for food packaging industries
- A strong Food Safety Management System (FSMS)
- Pre-requisite Progams (PRPs)
- Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP)
- Product and process control
- Supplier Management
- Traceability and Recall Procedures
- Internal Audits and Corrective Action
- Food defense and Food Prevention
How to get FSSC 22000 Certification for Food Packaging?
The FSSC 22000 certification for food packaging provides standards to manufacturers who produce materials based on glass, along with paper, plastic, metal, and board materials that will have food contact. To get FSSC 22000 certified, food packaging manufacturers must follow international food safety regulations and keep their processes updated to meet these standards.
The certification process for FSSC 22000 for packaging manufacturers includes these general steps:
- Document Preparation
Maintain your documents for FSSC 22000 certification for food packaging. These include the FSMS manual, food safety policy, HACCP plan, PRPs, SOPs, allergen and contamination plan, and food prevention and food defense plan.
- Pre-Audit
Food manufacturers have the choice to request a brief examination that finds potential concerns before conducting the complete audit. This stage is known as the Pre-Audit or internal audit. This helps the companies to identify the gaps and fix them before the final audit
- Application & Proposal
The company prepares a strategic approach according to the business dimensions and its internal operations. Once approved, the audit starts.
- On-Site Audit
The experts conduct the final audits in two stages: first the documentation review and next, the On-Site Audit to evaluate every procedure and substance and safety procedure against FSSC 22000 standards.
- Long-Term Certification Support
FSSC 22000 certification requires businesses to do regular audits during the long-term operational period. The active status of FSSC 22000 certification lasts three years until companies need to renew their certification.
Not sure if your packaging process complies with FSSC 22000? Contact our experts for a free consultation.
Common challenges in achieving FSSC 22000 Certification for Food Packaging & its solutions
1. Missing or Unclear Records
The main problem of various companies failing the audit is that they don’t have proper records of their food safety steps. If there’s no proof of safety checks or improper documents, it’s hard to pass.
Solution:
- Write down all the food safety steps and keep them organized.
- Use a simple system to store and update important documents.
- Regularly check and update your safety rules to match the latest standards.
2. Unsafe Packaging Materials
Packaging is something that consumers get connected to at first, it touches that food must be safe and follow rules of global safety. If a company uses unsafe materials, it may face some legal issues or lose its certification.
Solution:
- You can select to buy packaging only from trusted, certified suppliers.
- Ask suppliers for safety certificates before buying.
- Check regularly to make sure suppliers follow food safety rules.
3. Missing Tracking in Production
Keeping track of products is important for food safety. If there are any issues, companies need to make more efforts to find and remove unsafe products quickly. If a company doesn’t have a good tracking system, it’s tough for them to know where the problem started, which can make food unsafe.
Solution:
- You can use batch numbers, barcodes, or QR codes to keep an eye at every stage.
- Keep digital records to check packaging materials and production history.
- Set up a tracking system that makes it easy to find and fix any issues.
4. Poor Supplier Oversight
Some suppliers don’t always follow food safety rules. If they don’t follow the right standards, this mistake can affect your company’s brand role and reputation.
Solution:
- Set clear food safety requirements for all suppliers.
- Regularly check suppliers to make sure they follow food safety rules.
- Ask an independent expert to check the supplier’s practices before making a deal.
5. Poor Employee Learning
Even with good systems, mistakes can happen if workers are not trained properly. Employees need to know the food safety rules and follow them every day.
Solution:
- Train all workers regularly on food safety.
- Teach them about cleanliness, record-keeping, and tracking products.
- Give refresher courses to keep them updated on any new rules.
Fixing these common problems can help companies get and keep their FSSC 22000 certification. Keeping proper records, choosing reliable suppliers, tracking products, and training employees will follow the rules, keep food safe, and make the business run smoothly.
Not sure where to start? Contact us for support in achieving FSSC 22000 certification for your packaging business.
Read more: Top Challenges in FSSC 22000 Implementation and How to Overcome Them
Case Study: Successful FSSC 22000 Certification for Food Packaging with Legal4sure
Company Background
A leading Indian packaging manufacturer that specializes in biodegradable and recyclable food packaging materials wanted to enter foreign markets.
Challenges Faced
- Safety process documentation was not systematic.
- We could not confirm that raw material suppliers met the required standards.
- There was no proper training of employees on food safety and hygiene.
How They Overcame the Challenges
- They performed a comprehensive gap analysis and rearranged documentation procedures.
- We carried out supplier audits and material tests to verify their compliance.
- We trained employees on FSSC 22000 regulations and carried out simulated audits.
- The company achieved FSSC 22000 certification after passing the certification audit successfully.
Result
Major food brands worldwide awarded the company their contracts because the company expanded its market reach.
Want to see similar success in your business? Schedule a consultation with our FSSC 22000 experts today.
Why Choose Our Services for FSSC 22000 Certification for Food Packaging?
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Helpful Advice
We have experience with FSSC 22000 certification for food packaging over the decade.
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Personalized Help
The food packaging industry benefits from our modified strategies.
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Complete Assistance
We provided certification services from the initial gap analysis through to successful FSSC 22000 certification for food packaging and after that also.
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Successful Outcomes
Our team has guided 6 companies through the process of gaining global compliance.
Take the first step toward FSSC 22000 certification for your food packaging process. Contact us today!
See the Bright Future of Your Food Packaging Business With Legal4sure
FSSC 22000 certification for food packaging guarantees that your packaging materials fulfill international safety requirements while expanding market opportunities and supporting worldwide sustainability initiatives. To successfully address typical certification challenges, companies should implement a food packaging safety certification while providing ongoing training and expert guidance.
Any type of compliance challenge should not limit your company’s growth. Our inquiry form below will connect you with experts who can guide your food packaging company through the FSSC 22000 certification process. If you want to succeed in your food packaging business, contact us and make a mark in the industry.
Get Connected with Us!
Contact No: +91-9310655040, +91 9971894121
Email: info@legal4sure.in
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should get FSSC 22000 certified in the packaging sector?
Any company involved in the manufacturing of primary or secondary food packaging materials—like plastic, paper, glass, or metal—should obtain FSSC 22000 to meet food industry requirements.
Who are the best consultants for FSSC 22000 certification for food packaging?
If you’re looking for the best consultants for FSSC 22000 certification for food packaging, it’s important to choose a team that offers deep industry knowledge, end-to-end support, and proven success in food safety systems. Legal4sure stands out as a leading consultancy for FSSC 22000 certification for our expertise in understanding the unique challenges of food packaging—materials, hygiene, traceability, and regulatory expectations over a decade.
What is the cost of FSSC 22000 certification for food packaging?
The cost of FSSC 22000 certification for food packaging varies significantly based on factors like company size, scope of certification, and the chosen certification body, but initial costs can range from ₹85,000 per unit to ₹90,000 per year, with additional annual license fees and audit costs.
Which are the top certification bodies of FSSC 22000 for food packaging?
- DNV
- SGS
- Intertek
- TÜV SÜD
- TÜV NORD
