Implementação da FSSC 22000 em indústria de água mineral

Abstract

Food safety is an essential pillar for public health and for the competitiveness of food industry companies, as it ensures compliance with international standards and strengthens consumer confidence. In the specific case of the mineral water industry, the adoption of robust management systems is strategic, given that it is a product intended for direct human consumption and is highly regulated. In this context, FSSC 22000 certification stands out as one of the most globally recognized schemes, as it integrates advanced normative requirements that enhance traceability, risk prevention, and continuous improvement. This dissertation aims to diagnose and implement a Food Safety Management System (FSMS), based on FSSC 22000 version 6, in a mineral water company located in the state of Ceará, Brazil. The company had already been certified under ISO 22000:2018 since 2014, being a regional reference in food safety within the sector. However, in view of expanding to new markets and meeting the requirements of large retail chains, the company opted for FSSC 22000 certification, which incorporates more robust and comprehensive requirements. The methodology adopted consisted of a case study, comprising situational diagnosis, planning, technical training, document review, internal audits, and the integration of production and administrative sectors. Nine key processes were audited, ranging from procurement to maintenance, using a checklist with 259 items based on ISO 22000:2018, ISO/TS 22002-1, and the additional FSSC scheme requirements. The results showed significant advances in FSMS compliance. Comparing the internal audits carried out in 2024 and 2025, there was an 89.47% reduction in the number of nonconformities and an 80% reduction in opportunities for improvement. Such progress reflected the strengthening of the food safety culture, the systematization of operational records, the restructuring of production flowcharts, and the direct involvement of top management in the implementation process. The nonconformities identified, mostly classified as minor, were addressed with corrective action plans validated according to normative requirements. The implementation of FSSC 22000 proved to be not only a tool for regulatory compliance but also a competitive advantage, strategically repositioning the company in the beverage market. It is concluded that the adoption of the FSMS based on FSSC 22000 promotes continuous improvement, strengthens organizational credibility, and contributes to the sustainability and growth of the food industry sector.