The ISO 22000 standard was developed to harmonize food safety requirements on a global scale. Unlike other standards that may focus on specific aspects of food safety or apply to particular regions, ISO 22000 offers a comprehensive framework that can be implemented by any organization involved in the food supply chain, from primary producers and manufacturers to distributors and retailers. This universal applicability makes ISO 22000 an essential standard in a globalized food industry.

At its core, ISO 22000 emphasizes a proactive approach to food safety management. It integrates the principles of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), a widely recognized methodology for identifying and controlling food safety hazards, with elements of a robust management system. This combination ensures that organizations not only comply with regulatory requirements but also establish a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.