ISO 22000 & HACCP Implementation for a Food & Beverage Manufacturer in Zambia – A Case Study
Introduction
In today’s global food industry, regulatory requirements and consumer expectations demand a strong, risk-based approach to food safety. A leading food and beverage company based in Zambia partnered with PopularCert to implement both ISO 22000:2018 and HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) — two of the most recognized food safety frameworks worldwide.
This case study outlines how a comprehensive food safety management system was established, from hazard analysis to certification.
Client Overview (Confidential)
The client is a large-scale food and beverage manufacturer operating across Zambia with a wide portfolio of consumer products. With ambitions to expand into regional and export markets, the client sought internationally recognized food safety certifications to build brand credibility, improve operational safety, and ensure product compliance.
Key Challenges
A detailed analysis revealed the following critical issues:
🔹 Food Safety Risks
- Risk of contamination during receiving, storage, and processing
- Inconsistent monitoring of temperature-sensitive storage areas
- Lack of systematic hazard identification and risk prioritization
🔹 Supply Chain Pressures
- Dependence on specific suppliers for raw materials
- Exposure to price volatility and delayed deliveries
🔹 Documentation Gaps
- Manual tracking of product flow and hygiene compliance
- Unstructured or missing records for critical control points
🔹 Strategic Constraints
- Limited geographic market presence
- No formal food safety system in place, limiting regulatory readiness
Our Implementation Strategy
PopularCert’s team deployed a dual-certification approach, aligning ISO 22000 and HACCP implementation phases for maximum efficiency.
1. Hazard & Risk Management
- Developed a detailed Risk Register addressing Microbiological (M), Chemical (C), Physical (P), and Quality-related (Q) hazards
- Established Critical Control Points (CCPs) and monitored limits for processing, storage, and hygiene
Types Of Certification
- ISO Certification
- ISO 9001 Certification
- ISO 14001 Certification
- ISO 45001 Certification
- ISO 22000 Certification
- ISO 27001 Certification
- ISO 17025 Certification
- ISO 13485 Certification
- ISO 20000-1 Certification
- ISO 22301 Certification
- ISO 50001 Certification
- ISO 37001 Certification
- IATF 16949 Certification
- ISO 29001 Certification
- ISO 31000 Certification
- ISO 20121 Certification
- ISO 10002 Certification
- ISO 41001 Certification
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2. HACCP Plan Development
- Structured and validated a full HACCP plan, identifying all significant hazards and setting up preventive measures
- Created control logs and monitoring checklists for CCPs
3. Integrated Documentation
- Developed food safety policies, procedures, and operational SOPs for ISO 22000 compliance
- Implemented forms and logs for traceability, sanitation, verification, and corrective actions
4. Training & Culture Building
- Delivered on-site HACCP and ISO 22000 training for production and quality teams
- Fostered awareness of food safety principles, hygiene standards, and risk-based thinking
5. Internal Audit & Certification Readiness
- Conducted internal audits to ensure system readiness
- Supported successful third-party certification for both ISO 22000 and HACCP with minor non-conformities resolved quickly
Results
The organization successfully achieved ISO 22000:2018 and HACCP certification, establishing a reliable and compliant Food Safety Management System.
Key Outcomes:
- Full traceability from sourcing to delivery
- Systematic hazard control and critical point monitoring
- Complete food safety documentation in place
- Improved hygiene, staff accountability, and risk awareness
- Enhanced trust with customers, partners, and regulators
Conclusion
This dual-certification project illustrates how PopularCert helped the client build a world-class food safety system that complies with international standards while addressing local challenges. Through structured implementation of ISO 22000 and HACCP, the client is now equipped to operate safely, scale confidently, and compete globally.
Looking to implement HACCP or ISO 22000 in your food business?
Connect with PopularCert at www.popularcert.com — experts in food safety certification and compliance.
FAQ
What is the difference between ISO 22000 and HACCP?
HACCP is a food safety system that focuses on identifying and controlling hazards during food production. ISO 22000 builds on HACCP by integrating it into a full Food Safety Management System (FSMS), which includes policies, procedures, and continual improvement mechanisms. Most food businesses benefit from implementing both.
How long does it take to get ISO 22000 and HACCP certified?
For a small to mid-sized company, certification can typically be achieved within 2 to 4 months, depending on readiness, training, and documentation. With PopularCert’s guidance, the process is structured and streamlined.
Is HACCP certification enough for food exports?
HACCP is often the minimum requirement for food exports. However, ISO 22000 certification provides broader international recognition and can give an advantage when dealing with importers, regulatory bodies, and retail partners.
Can both certifications be implemented at the same time?
Yes — and that’s the most efficient approach. At PopularCert, we specialize in integrated implementation where ISO 22000 and HACCP are aligned together to save time, reduce effort, and ensure full compliance.