HACCP vs ISO 22000 vs FSSC 22000: Which One Do You Need?

If you run or work in a food business, you've heard all three. Buyers ask for them, auditors check them, and it's not always clear where one ends and the next begins. The good news: they build on each other. Once you see how, choosing is simple.

HACCP — the foundation

HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) is a method, not a certification scheme. It's a systematic way to identify food safety hazards and control them at the critical points in your process. Every credible food safety system in the world is built on HACCP principles. If you handle food, HACCP is where your team starts.

ISO 22000 — the management system

ISO 22000 takes HACCP and wraps it in a full food safety management system (FSMS). It adds the management structure around your hazard controls: leadership, documented processes, communication up and down the supply chain, prerequisite programs, monitoring and continual improvement. It's an international standard you can be certified against.

FSSC 22000 — the GFSI-recognized scheme

FSSC 22000 is a certification scheme that combines ISO 22000 with sector-specific prerequisite programs and some additional requirements (including food defense and food fraud mitigation). Crucially, it is benchmarked by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). Many large retailers and international buyers will only work with suppliers certified to a GFSI-recognized scheme like FSSC 22000.

So which do you need?

• Just getting started, or a smaller operation: build a solid HACCP plan and train your team on HACCP and food safety risk management.
• Want a recognized management system: move up to ISO 22000.
• Selling to major retailers or exporting: you'll likely be asked for FSSC 22000, because it's GFSI-recognized.

Think of them as a staircase: HACCP → ISO 22000 → FSSC 22000. You don't skip steps; each one makes the next easier.

How KTMC helps

We train your team and help you build the system — from HACCP and food safety training through to FSSC 22000 training, and we provide internal audits and gap assessments to get you certification-ready.

Frequently asked questions

Is HACCP the same as ISO 22000?

No. HACCP is a method for controlling food safety hazards. ISO 22000 is a full management system standard that includes HACCP principles plus the management structure around them. You can be certified to ISO 22000, but HACCP itself is an approach rather than a certification scheme.

Do I need FSSC 22000 or is ISO 22000 enough?

It depends on your buyers. ISO 22000 is a recognized international standard, but many large retailers and exporters specifically require a GFSI-benchmarked scheme — and FSSC 22000 is the most common one. If your customers ask for GFSI certification, you'll need FSSC 22000.

Where should a small food business start?

Start with HACCP. Build a solid HACCP plan and train your team, then step up to ISO 22000 or FSSC 22000 as your customers and growth require it.