LFGB Certification Process for Food Paper Boxes in Germany
Date：2026-01-08 10:11:49 Classification
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The German LFGB testing covers all materials. The process for obtaining German LFGB certification for food cartons is as follows, with key points for each step clearly defined based on the testing characteristics of paper products:
I. Preliminary Consultation and Document Evaluation
1. Consult with an organization qualified with LFGB testing (such as Dezewei Testing CNAS registration number: L8083, which must have CNAS or German official accreditation) and provide detailed information about the food cartons:
Material composition of the cartons (e.g., type of base paper, whether there is coating/printing ink, type of adhesive);
Intended food contact types (acidic/oily/dry foods, contact temperature, contact duration);
Product design drawings, manufacturing process description, Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).
2. The testing organization will assess the required testing items for the cartons according to Articles 30-31 of the LFGB regulations, such as pentachlorophenol (PCP) testing specific to paper products, heavy metal release testing, and formaldehyde content testing.
II. Quotation and Contract Signing
1. The agency will provide a one-time quotation based on the assessed testing items (no subsequent fees, no additional factory inspection fees), specifying the testing cycle (typically 5-7 working days, complex products may be extended to 10 working days).
2. After confirmation by both parties, a testing contract will be signed, clearly defining rights and obligations, including testing items, fees, delivery time, etc.
III. Sample Preparation and Submission
1. Prepare samples according to the agency's requirements:
Provide 3-5 complete sets of finished cardboard boxes (must be consistent with the marketed products, including packaging and printing);
Separate material samples (such as individual samples of base paper, coating, ink, and adhesive for targeted component testing).
2. Complete the testing application form and send it along with the samples to the testing agency. Some agencies support online submission of application materials.
IV. Laboratory-Specific Testing
For food-grade paperboard boxes, the laboratory will conduct the following core tests in accordance with LFGB regulations:
1. Initial Sample Inspection: Verify that the material and structure of the paperboard box meet the testing requirements;
2. Sensory Evaluation: Assess whether the paperboard box will transfer unpleasant odors or tastes to the food;
3. Paper Product-Specific Chemical Tests: Pentachlorophenol (PCP) testing, heavy metal (lead/cadmium/mercury/hexavalent chromium) release testing, formaldehyde content testing; for colored paperboard boxes, azo dye testing is also required;
4. Special Items: If antibacterial ingredients are added to the paperboard box, an antibacterial ingredient migration test is required to ensure that the migration amount meets safety limits.
V. Testing, Rectification, and Report Issuance
1. If the test fails (e.g., excessive heavy metals, high formaldehyde content), the agency will provide specific rectification suggestions (e.g., replacing with low-grade ink, using food-grade adhesive). After rectification, the sample will be resubmitted for retesting.
2. After all tests are passed, the agency will issue an LFGB test report stamped with its accreditation seal. The report will clearly state "Complies with German LFGB regulations," ensuring compliance in the German and EU markets.
VI. Market Compliance
1. After obtaining the report, the product can be sold in the German market. A cutlery symbol (≥5mm height) can be marked on the cardboard packaging to enhance the product's competitiveness in the European market.
2. The LFGB report is valid indefinitely. As long as the cardboard material, manufacturing process, and relevant regulations and standards remain unchanged, recertification is not required.
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