In August 2025, ISO published a new series of standards dedicated to Prerequisite Programmes (PRPs), the cornerstones of any food safety management system. At the heart of this update is ISO 22002-100, which now establishes the common foundation of PRPs for the entire food chain: food manufacturing, animal feed production, packaging, catering and logistics.

A redesigned architecture: a foundation + sector-specific supplements

Until now, each ISO 22002-X standard detailed both general requirements and sector-specific requirements, sometimes with redundancies. ISO 22002-100 now brings together the requirements common to all sectors (staff hygiene, pest control, cleaning and disinfection, allergen control, food defence, etc.). . The updated ISO 22002-X standards (e.g. Part 1 for food manufacturing) then supplement this foundation with requirements specific to each sector.

Possible exclusions, but within a framework

The standard allows for exclusions, provided they are duly justified and do not compromise food safety. This flexibility allows organisations to adapt their management system to their operational reality, while remaining aligned with the principles of ISO 22000:2018.

What impact will this have on certified companies?

• For companies certified to FSSC 22000 version 6, no immediate transition is required: certification remains based on the old ISO 22002 series standards.
• However, it is very likely that version 7 of FSSC 22000, expected shortly, will incorporate these new versions of the PRP standards. Companies must therefore plan ahead.

How can you prepare?

• Carry out a gap analysis between your current PRPs and the requirements of the new applicable ISO 22002-X standards.
• Train your teams on the new requirements and how they relate to sector-specific standards.
• Update your procedures (hygiene, allergens, food fraud, recycling, etc.) to ensure compliance as soon as the new version of the FSSC 22000 standard comes into force.

In summary
ISO 22002-100:2025 marks a key step in the simplification and harmonisation of Prerequisite Programmes. It paves the way for more consistent food safety management across all sectors. Although the immediate impact on FSSC 22000-certified companies is limited, it is strategically important to prepare now in order to calmly address future regulatory and certification changes.