ISO 22000:2018 is an international standard that outlines the requirements for a Food Safety Management System (FSMS). It provides a framework for organizations involved in the food chain to establish, implement, maintain, and continually improve a system for ensuring food safety. The goal of ISO 22000 is to help organizations control and minimize the risks related to food safety, ensuring the delivery of safe products to consumers.

Key elements and features of ISO 22000:2018 include:

1. Scope and Applicability:
   • ISO 22000 is applicable to any organization, regardless of its size, involved in the food chain. This includes food processors, manufacturers, distributors, and suppliers. The standard is designed to be adaptable to different types of food and food-related businesses.
2. Prerequisite Programs:
   • ISO 22000 requires the establishment and implementation of prerequisite programs (PRPs) to create a foundation for effective food safety management. PRPs cover areas such as hygiene, sanitation, and the operating environment.
3. Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP):
   • Organizations are required to conduct a hazard analysis to identify, evaluate, and control potential hazards related to food safety. The principles of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) are integrated into the standard.
4. Communication:
   • ISO 22000 emphasizes the importance of effective communication throughout the food chain. This includes communication with customers, suppliers, regulatory authorities, and other relevant parties.
5. Emergency Preparedness and Response:
   • Organizations must establish and maintain procedures for handling potential emergency situations that could impact food safety. This includes developing plans for responding to and recovering from emergencies.
6. Verification, Validation, and Improvement:
   • ISO 22000 requires regular verification and validation of the FSMS to ensure its effectiveness. This involves monitoring, measurement, analysis, and evaluation of processes. Continuous improvement is also emphasized to enhance the overall food safety management system.
7. Documentation and Record Keeping:
   • The standard specifies requirements for documenting the FSMS and maintaining records to demonstrate compliance with its requirements.

ISO 22000 certification involves assessments by accredited certification bodies to ensure that the organization’s FSMS meets the requirements of the standard. It’s important to note that standards may be subject to updates, so organizations should verify for any revisions or changes beyond last knowledge update in January 2022.