FSSC 22000 Version 7 Ushers in a New Era of Food Safety

The Food Safety System Certification (FSSC) Foundation has announced the release of FSSC 22000 Version 7, published in May 2026. This latest update brings the globally recognized food safety standard in line with the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) Benchmarking Requirements v2024 and incorporates the newly published ISO 22002-x:2025 series on Prerequisite Programs (PRPs). Certified organizations have a mandatory 12-month transition period to migrate to the updated system. 

Why Version 7 Was Developed 

• Modernized PRPs: Version 7 replaces the older BSI PAS and ISO/TS 22002-x specifications with the new ISO 22002-100:2025 baseline PRP standard, supported by sector-specific parts such as ISO 22002-1 for food manufacturing. This harmonized structure reduces duplication and complexity while ensuring consistency across the food chain. 
• Alignment with GFSI 2024: The scheme now reflects updated GFSI requirements on food safety culture, food fraud, food defense, and management commitment, ensuring continued recognition by global retailers and supply chain partners. 
• Support for UN SDGs: New requirements encourage Food Loss and Waste (FLW) reduction and sustainable packaging design, incorporating principles developed by the Australasian Institute of Packaging (AIP) and the World Packaging Organization (WPO). 
• Enhanced Auditor Competency: A more defined division of food chain subcategories strengthens auditor qualification criteria, emphasizing product and process knowledge, as well as regulatory expertise. 
• Editorial Improvements: Continuous refinements ensure clarity and usability of the scheme documents. 

Benefits for Organizations 

• A single, unified PRP standard with sector-specific add-ons simplifies implementation for multisector businesses. 
• Packaging design requirements contribute to sustainability goals and reduce food waste. 
• Clearer scheme documentation improves understanding and application during audits. 

Transition Timeline   

1. Launch of Version 7: FSSC 22000 Version 7 officially published in May 2026. 
2. Transition Planning: Organizations must establish transition procedures between May 2026 and April 2027. 
3. Final V6 Audits: Last audits against Version 6 permitted until April 2027. 
4. Mandatory V7 Audits: All audits conducted from May 2027 must follow Version 7 requirements. 
5. Upgrade Deadline: Certified organizations must complete their transition audit by April 2028. 

About Cotecna

For over 50 years, we have been supporting agriculture, food and pharma, minerals and metals, and consumer products supply chains all over the world. We provide testing, inspection, and certification services to help our clients navigate evolving regulations, ensure product compliance, and support their sustainability journey.