Both are GFSI-recognised. FSSC 22000 is built on ISO 22000 and is the dominant scheme in continental Europe. SQF is owned by FMI (US-based Food Industry Association) and is the most-adopted GFSI scheme in North America.
Manufacturers operating globally or in EMEA, especially those already on ISO 22000.
Manufacturers selling into North American retailers (Walmart, Costco, Kroger) and food-service.
All ten dimensions head-to-head:
| Aspect | FSSC 22000 | SQF |
|---|---|---|
| Owner | FSSC Foundation (Netherlands) | FMI / SQFI (USA) |
| Geographic strength | Europe, APAC | North America, Australia, parts of LATAM |
| Base | ISO 22000 + ISO/TS 22002-x + FSSC additions | SQF Code (proprietary) |
| Levels | Single level (PRP-specific) | Level 2 (Food Safety), Level 3 (Quality) |
| Audit unannounced | 3-yearly mandatory unannounced | ~30% unannounced |
| Code length | ~120 pages incl. PRPs | ~120 pages |
| Required role | No specific named role | SQF Practitioner (named, trained, qualified) required |
| Cost (SME) | £5k–£12k/year | $8k–$20k/year |
| GFSI-recognised? | Yes | Yes |
| Best for | Multi-site, Europe-focused | US-focused, single-site or US chains |
Choose FSSC 22000 if you operate in EMEA or globally; you already hold ISO 22000; or you have multiple sites.
Choose SQF if you sell into Walmart, Costco, Kroger or other US retailers; or you’re a North American food producer.
Both are GFSI-recognised so they satisfy the same buyer requirement. Switching is moderately costly — plan transitions at recertification.
SQF. Almost every major US grocery retailer accepts both, but SQF has the largest US footprint.
A named, trained, qualified individual at the site who has responsibility for the food safety and quality plan. SQF requires this role; FSSC 22000 does not.
FSSC 22000 mandates an unannounced audit every 3 years. SQF includes a percentage of unannounced audits in its programme.
Yes, but you may face buyer pushback if your US retailers prefer SQF. Discuss with major customers before switching.
Both standards have free interactive gap-analysis tools — no sign-up, no install.