How can companies apply for the ECARF Quality Seal?

The application is based on two steps:

1.) The company asks ECARF in writing for the quality seal for a specific product. ECARF than offers personal talks to discuss the detailed procedures following, since these maybe different for different food items.

2.) For the final approval of the product ECARF needs a written document from a food analysis laboratory which proves that the demands for the quality seal have been fulfilled for this specific product.

The document needs to be written in English language. Other languages require official translations.

ECARF Quality Seal - flowchart application process

How are certified products been made visible for the public?

  • The seal is placed either on the package of the product or in case of small products on the outside of the container.
  • ECARF lists also certified products on the internet pages of the foundation to ensure that patients with allergies have an easier product selection.

In the internet presentation the following information will be found:

  • Pictures of the products including the product information which is on the package.
  • The information about the name of the producer and contact enabling the labelling consumers to get in direct contact with the producer in case of more detailed questions.
  • If possible additional information which characterise the quality of the product more in detail are added.
  • Background information about special procedures which the producer provides to avoid allergen cross contamination like separate production lines.

What is the role of the auditor?

The respective auditors/auditing institutions take on a high level of responsibility in the process for awarding the ECARF Quality Seal for Allergy-Friendly Products and Services.

It is the auditor's/assessor's responsibility to determine the frequency.of the regular examinations and advising of the manufacturer or service provider, based on the complexity of the contents/production processes.   

ECARF offers training sessions and certification for auditors and auditing institutions. If you are interested, please Opens internal link in current windowcontact us.

Detailed information on the specific requirements can be found under the respective menus Opens internal link in current windowFood, Opens internal link in current windowProducts and Opens internal link in current windowServices.

ECARF Media-Player

Click here for interviews, radio and TV programmes about allergies, and more.

ECARF Quality Seal

The ECARF Quality Seal is awarded to allergy-friendly products and services.  Find out here which products have been awarded the ECARF Quality Seal, and how companies can apply for the seal. Read more.

Allergy Facts and Figures

What are allergies?  How are they treated?  Find the answers to these and other questions in the section
"About Allergies".

Support ECARF!

ECARF depends on the engagement and support of its employees and sponsors.  Help us to improve the quality of life for people with allergies!

ECARF - Network

GARD Global Alliance against Chronic Respiratory Diseases
Institut für Produktqualität
Global Allergy and Asthma European Network
Allergic Rhinitis and it's Impact on Asthma
Urticaria Network e.V. Informationsportal für Urtikaria-Betroffene

ECARF - Sponsors

STERN Ratgeber Allergie
Henkel