Can ISO 22000:2018 Replace the Certificate of Eligibility for Food Safety

Can ISO 22000:2018 Replace the Certificate of Eligibility for Food Safety (GCN VSATTP)?

In the industrial catering sector, one common question often arises:

Can the ISO 22000:2018 certification replace the Certificate of Eligibility for Food Safety (GCN VSATTP)?

The answer is: YES — but it must be understood accurately and in full accordance with Vietnamese law.

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1. Clear Legal Basis

According to Article 12 of Decree No. 15/2018/NĐ-CP issued on February 2, 2018 by the Government, the following establishments are not subject to the requirement of obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility for Food Safety:

Establishments that have been granted one of the following valid certifications:
– Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
– Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP)
– ISO 22000 Food Safety Management System
– FSSC 22000 Food Safety System Certification or equivalent

=> Therefore, ISO 22000:2018 may be used in place of GCN VSATTP, provided it remains valid and is issued by a legally recognized certification body.

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2. Notes for Practical Application

While the law allows exemption from the GCN VSATTP if ISO 22000 certification is already obtained, businesses must still take note of the following:

• Not all types of establishments are exempt. For example:
  • Collective kitchens that have not registered food business activities are exempt from GCN.
  • However, if the food business is officially registered, ISO/HACCP/FSSC is required to be exempt.
• Local authorities or large clients (especially FDI enterprises) may still require both certifications to ensure transparency and compliance.
• Some inter-agency inspections may still request to see the GCN VSATTP, even if ISO certification is already in place.

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3. Recommendations from Hiepphatfood Catering

As a professional unit in the field of contract catering – providing meals at factories, schools, and organizations – Hiepphatfood Catering always ensures:

• Both GCN VSATTP & ISO 22000:2018 are fully maintained at each kitchen site.
• Proactive collaboration with authorities and partners to meet both legal and practical requirements.
• Implementation of food safety systems in a structured and practical manner — not just on paper.

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Conclusion

ISO 22000:2018 can replace the Certificate of Eligibility for Food Safety (GCN VSATTP) under Vietnamese law. However, businesses are strongly recommended to possess both to ensure transparent, safe, and professional operations in the industrial catering field.

If you need specific consultation regarding kitchen setup, certification procedures, or building a compliant food safety system, let Hiepphatfood Catering be your trusted partner.