In the world of food safety, two names often come up—ISO 22000 and HACCP. Both are designed to ensure that food is safe for consumption, but they differ in scope, structure, and implementation. If you’re a food manufacturer, processor, or distributor wondering which system is best suited for your business, this blog will help you make an informed decision.
🔍 What is HACCP?
HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) is a preventive food safety system that identifies potential hazards and implements control measures at critical points in the production process. It’s widely recognized and often required by regulatory bodies worldwide.
✅ Key Features:
- Focuses on biological, chemical, and physical hazards
- Used mainly in food processing and handling environments
- Mandatory in many countries for food manufacturers
- Involves 7 core principles, including hazard analysis, CCP identification, monitoring, and verification
🌐 What is ISO 22000?
ISO 22000 is an international standard developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). It incorporates HACCP principles but offers a more comprehensive Food Safety Management System (FSMS) approach.
✅ Key Features:
- Includes all HACCP principles + ISO management system elements
- Globally recognized across all food supply chain actors
- Aligned with ISO’s High-Level Structure (HLS) for integration with other ISO standards (e.g., ISO 9001)
- Focuses on communication, system management, and continual improvement
📊 Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | HACCP | ISO 22000 |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Hazard control | Comprehensive FSMS |
| Recognition | Regulatory & industry-wide | International standard |
| Applicable To | Food production/handling | Entire food chain (farm to fork) |
| Structure | 7 Principles | Process-based + ISO HLS |
| Certification Requirement | Not always required | Certification available/optional |
| Integration with ISO Standards | No | Yes (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, etc.) |
🏭 Which One is Right for Your Business?
- Choose HACCP if:
- You need a simple, hazard-based food safety system
- You operate in a regulated environment that requires HACCP
- You are a small to mid-sized food manufacturer or kitchen
- Choose ISO 22000 if:
- You want a fully integrated management system
- You are exporting or working with international partners
- You plan to align food safety with other standards like ISO 9001
🛡 How Vertic Arabia Can Help
At Vertic Arabia, we specialize in both HACCP implementation and ISO 22000 certification support. Whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading your current system, our experts guide you through every step—from gap analysis and training to documentation and audit preparation.
