EMAS
EU voluntary scheme for environmental management and audit
FSSC 22000
GFSI-benchmarked scheme for food safety management systems
Quick Verdict
EMAS drives voluntary environmental performance via verified EU registration, while FSSC 22000 certifies food safety systems globally. Companies adopt EMAS for eco-credibility and FSSC for supply-chain trust and market access.
EMAS
Regulation (EC) No 1221/2009 Eco-Management and Audit Scheme
Key Features
- Verified legal compliance with environmental legislation
- Mandatory validated public environmental statement
- Core environmental performance indicators required
- Independent third-party verifier validation
- Continuous improvement in environmental performance
FSSC 22000
Food Safety System Certification 22000 (FSSC 22000)
Key Features
- Integrates ISO 22000, PRPs, and Additional Requirements
- GFSI-benchmarked for global food chain recognition
- Mandates food defense and fraud vulnerability assessments
- Requires sector-specific PRPs like ISO/TS 22002 series
- Enforces third-party audits with 50% operational focus
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
EMAS Details
What It Is
EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme), formally Regulation (EC) No 1221/2009, is a voluntary EU environmental management framework. It promotes continuous improvement in environmental performance through structured systems, evaluation, and transparent reporting. Built on ISO 14001 principles with a PDCA cycle, it emphasizes verified legal compliance and public disclosure.
Key Components
- Initial environmental review covering direct/indirect aspects
- Environmental policy, objectives, and programs
- EMS implementation with employee involvement and audits
- Core indicators (energy, materials, water, waste, emissions, biodiversity)
- Validated public environmental statement (Annex IV)
- Independent verifier validation and Competent Body registration
Why Organizations Use It
- Demonstrates credible transparency and legal compliance
- Drives resource efficiency and cost savings
- Enhances procurement advantages and stakeholder trust
- Supports CSRD/ESRS reporting synergies
- Reduces regulatory risks in EU markets
Implementation Overview
Phased approach: review, policy/program design, EMS rollout, audits, verification, registration. Applies to all sectors/sizes; SMEs have derogations. Requires annual statements and periodic full verifications.
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. The scheme uses a risk-based approach integrating ISO 22000:2018 PDCA cycle with HACCP principles.
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, fraud, allergens).
- Over 100 requirements across management, operations, and verification.
- Built on PDCA and HACCP; requires third-party audits by licensed Certification Bodies.
Why Organizations Use It
- Meets buyer and retailer demands for GFSI recognition.
- Enhances supply chain trust, reduces audit duplication.
- Manages risks like contamination, fraud; supports SDGs.
- Boosts market access, reputation, and operational efficiency.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, FSMS design, training, audits.
- For food chain organizations globally; 6-12 months typical.
- Stage 1/2 certification audits; annual surveillance.
Key Differences
| Aspect | EMAS | FSSC 22000 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Environmental performance management and reporting | Food safety management systems |
| Industry | All sectors across EU, voluntary | Food chain categories worldwide, GFSI |
| Nature | Voluntary EU regulation with registration | GFSI-benchmarked certification scheme |
| Testing | Independent verifier audits every 3 years | CB audits with surveillance annually |
| Penalties | Registration suspension or deletion | Certification withdrawal |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about EMAS and FSSC 22000
EMAS FAQ
FSSC 22000 FAQ
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