CMMC
DoD framework certifying cybersecurity maturity for DIB
FSSC 22000
GFSI-benchmarked certification scheme for food safety management.
Quick Verdict
CMMC mandates cybersecurity certification for DoD contractors protecting FCI/CUI, while FSSC 22000 provides voluntary GFSI-benchmarked food safety certification for food chain organizations. Companies adopt CMMC for contract eligibility; FSSC 22000 for global market access and supply chain trust.
CMMC
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0
Key Features
- Three cumulative levels for FCI, CUI, APT protection
- Third-party C3PAO and DIBCAC assessments
- Maps to 110 NIST SP 800-171 Rev 2 controls
- DFARS flow-down mandates supply chain compliance
- POA&Ms limited to 180-day closure timelines
FSSC 22000
FSSC 22000 Food Safety System Certification
Key Features
- Combines ISO 22000, PRPs, and additional requirements
- GFSI-benchmarked for global supply chain recognition
- Food defense and fraud vulnerability assessments
- Sector-specific PRPs across food chain categories
- Mandatory food safety culture and quality objectives
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
CMMC Details
What It Is
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 is a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) certification program verifying cybersecurity practices in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). It safeguards Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) via a tiered, control-based model drawn from FAR 52.204-21, NIST SP 800-171 Rev 2, and NIST SP 800-172.
Key Components
- 14 domains (e.g., Access Control, Incident Response, Risk Assessment)
- Level 1: 15-17 basic FAR controls; Level 2: 110 NIST 800-171 practices; Level 3: +24 NIST 800-172 enhancements
- Assessment paths: self-assessments (Levels 1/2), C3PAO (Level 2), DIBCAC (Level 3)
- Reporting to SPRS/eMASS with annual affirmations
Why Organizations Use It
- Required for DoD contract eligibility and flow-down
- Mitigates supply chain risks, reduces breach costs
- Provides competitive bid advantage, operational resilience
- Enhances trust with primes, stakeholders
Implementation Overview
Phased: governance, scoping/gaps, remediation, assessment, sustainment. Applies to all DIB sizes handling FCI/CUI; involves SSP, POA&Ms (180-day limit), evidence collection. Certifications valid 3 years.
FSSC 22000 Details
What It Is
FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification 22000) is a GFSI-benchmarked certification scheme for Food Safety Management Systems (FSMS). It applies across food chain categories like manufacturing, packaging, and logistics, using a risk-based PDCA approach integrating ISO 22000:2018 requirements.
Key Components
- **Three pillarsISO 22000:2018 (clauses 4-10), sector-specific PRPs (e.g., ISO/TS 22002 series), FSSC Additional Requirements (e.g., food defense, allergens).
- Over 100 requirements across management, operations, and verification.
- Built on HACCP principles; certification via licensed bodies per ISO 22003-1.
Why Organizations Use It
- Meets retailer mandates and enables global trade.
- Reduces recalls, enhances supply chain trust.
- Drives risk management, quality integration, and SDG alignment.
- Builds reputation via public certificate register.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, FSMS design, training, audits.
- For food chain organizations worldwide; 6-24 months typical.
- Requires Stage 1/2 audits, surveillance, recertification every 3 years.
Key Differences
| Aspect | CMMC | FSSC 22000 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Cybersecurity for FCI/CUI protection | Food safety management systems |
| Industry | Defense Industrial Base contractors | Food chain manufacturing/processing |
| Nature | Mandatory DoD certification program | Voluntary GFSI-benchmarked scheme |
| Testing | Self/C3PAO/DIBCAC triennial assessments | CB certification audits, surveillance |
| Penalties | Contract ineligibility, debarment | Loss of certification, market exclusion |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about CMMC and FSSC 22000
CMMC FAQ
FSSC 22000 FAQ
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