FSSC 22000 is proposing to incorporate unannounced audits into the revised FSSC 22000 Certification Scheme Version 4 due to be available in 2016. It is expected that the unannounced audit will be integrated into the three-year certification cycle of FSSC 22000. However, prior to making this final decision, a pilot test of the foreseen unannounced audit element will be conducted.
The aim of an FSSC 22000 unannounced audit program is to provide a recognized and acceptable way of illustrating the effectiveness of the food safety management practices of an FSSC 22000 certified organization. It will allow certified organizations to demonstrate their commitment to food safety by being audit-ready at all times thereby building confidence in the on-going management systems' approach of FSSC 22000 and the assurance of improved food safety management throughout the supply chain. The utilization of the data from the unannounced audit offers a unique opportunity to assess the functioning of the PRP programs, process controls and evaluate the essential elements of the food safety management system (FSMS) at work floor level.
