FSSC Development Program

FSSC Development Program for food safety in small and medium-sized enterprises

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a pivotal role in the global food supply chain. To help these businesses deliver safe products, the Foundation FSSC has developed the FSSC Development Program. Through a two-step approach, SMEs can demonstrably improve their food safety system without having to apply immediately for the full FSSC 22000 certification.

Demonstrate commitment to food safety

Meet customer food safety requirements

Expand market access

Increased visibility through public register

What is the FSSC Development Program?

The FSSC Development Program offers a two-step approach to helping SMEs produce safe food products. It is aligned with the food safety requirements of the Codex Alimentarius and GFSI Global Markets, incorporates elements of ISO 22000, and fits within the FSSC 22000 structure. The program is designed to professionalize the food safety system of companies. It is particularly suitable for SMEs that want to meet their customers' food safety requirements or expand their market access. Startups and companies in emerging markets can also benefit from the FSSC Development Program.

After a successful assessment, companies receive a Conformity Statement. The document does not have the same value as an FSSC 22000 certificate. Still, it proves that the company meets Level 1 or Level 2 requirements for food safety systems. The FSSC Development Program can assist companies in obtaining FSSC 22000 certification as a next step, if desired.

Organizations that meet the requirements of the FSSC Development Program are added to the public register on the FSSC website.

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Who is FSSC Development Program suitable for?

The FSSC Development Program is aimed at small and medium-sized food enterprises in the food manufacturing, catering and retail sectors. Both ingredient manufacturers who supply to other food manufacturers and those who supply to retailers and food service providers can benefit from the FSSC Development Program.

How to obtain the FSSC Development Program Conformity Statement

Prior to the assessment, companies conduct a self-assessment using the free FSSC self-evaluation tool. Optionally, companies can enlist the support of an FSSC-recognized training organization, such as DQS. Based on this, companies decide which requirement level (conformity level 1 or 2) to aim for.

In the next step, you contact an FSSC-recognized inspection body such as DQS. The audit of the requirements takes place on site. After the audit, you will receive a detailed report that lists possible non-conformities and improvements.

Implement the corrective and preventive actions to prevent reoccurrence. If all non-conformities have been corrected, you will receive a Conformity Statement (Level 1 or 2) and be added to the FSSC database.

To maintain compliance with the FSSC Development Program, annual assessments must be conducted. Organizations can decide whether to remain at compliance level 1 or 2, or to pursue FSSC 22000 certification down the road.

What does the FSSC Development Program cost?

How high the costs for the FSSC Development Program turn out to be is determined by various factors. In addition to the size of the company, the scope of the products or the type of service also influence the audit cost. We will be happy to make you an individual offer.