The Impact of the Practices of the Yemeni Standards, Metrology and Quality Control Organization on the Implementation of the Food Safety Management System (ISO 22000) in Yemeni Food Companies

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the impact of the practices of the Yemeni Organization for Standardization, Metrology and Quality Control on the implementation of the ISO 22000 Food Safety Management System in Yemeni food companies, given the limited adoption of this system compared to regional peers. The study employed a descriptive-analytical methodology supported by a qualitative approach. Quantitative data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered to a simple random sample of 348 employees from four ISO 22000-certified food companies, while qualitative data were obtained through semi-structured interviews with managers responsible for quality and food safety. The findings revealed a statistically significant effect of the Organization’s practices on ISO 22000 implementation, with notable variation across dimensions. Quality control practices showed the strongest positive impact, followed by standardization practices with a weak positive effect, whereas the issuance of standards demonstrated a significant negative effect due to bureaucratic complexity and limited alignment with local production conditions. Qualitative results further indicated that inspection activities and technical guidance contributed to improving operational performance and compliance with food safety requirements, despite financial, technical, and organizational challenges. The study concludes by emphasizing the need to enhance regulatory and advisory practices and strengthen the integration between standards, standardization, and quality control to ensure effective and sustainable implementation of ISO 22000 in Yemeni food companies.