AOECS Certification concerns the evaluation of products that meet the requirements for the safe production of gluten-free foods. It is an important credibility tool for businesses that produce or market gluten-free products, as it is linked to the internationally recognized Crossed Grain Trademark.
The certification enhances trust in the special diet market and supports documented compliance with gluten-free certification and food safety requirements.
What is AOECS Certification and what is the role of AOECS?
Association of European Coeliac Societies is a European network of coeliac societies that has developed a private standard for the production of safe gluten-free products.
AOECS Certification, as part of broader agri-food certification schemes, is based on common food safety requirements and applies to food business operators that produce, pack, or distribute products intended for consumers with coeliac disease, dermatitis herpetiformis (Duhring disease), or other gluten-related conditions.
The standard includes a clear definition of gluten and gluten-containing cereals and is supported by technical requirements that enable consistent compliance assessment.
What is the Crossed Grain Trademark and why is it important?
The Crossed Grain Trademark is a globally registered trademark for gluten-free products. Its value lies in its high recognition among consumers seeking safe products for special dietary needs.
The symbol is recognized by over 700 million consumers in Europe, with more than 23,000 gluten-free products licensed. Additionally, according to system data, 8 out of 10 consumers prefer products bearing this mark.
For food businesses, the use of the Crossed Grain Trademark can enhance commercial credibility, product differentiation, and consumer trust.
When is a product considered gluten-free according to AOECS?
According to gluten-free compliance requirements, a product must contain less than 20 ppm of gluten.
This requirement aligns with Commission Regulation (EU) No 828/2014, which defines how food information regarding the absence or reduced presence of gluten is communicated to consumers.
Compliance is not based solely on a company declaration but must be demonstrated through appropriate laboratory testing and documented controls. For packaged foods, correct labeling and verification of gluten content are critical elements of the assessment.
AOECS Certification process step by step
The AOECS certification process includes defined stages of evaluation and licensing. Initially, the company submits an application, and the scope of assessment is defined, including facilities, products, and activities.
Depending on the case, either a stand-alone audit or an AOECS Addendum audit is performed, based on the applicable certification framework.
Inspections, audit, and cross-contamination risk management
The audit is conducted by qualified auditors and covers critical points of the production facility.
During the inspection, the following are evaluated:
The assessment aims to verify that the company consistently applies the standard requirements and that products remain within gluten-free compliance limits.
Benefits of AOECS Certification for food businesses
AOECS Certification provides significant benefits for companies operating in the gluten-free market.
The use of the Crossed Grain Trademark enhances:
In addition, a single license may support product distribution in more than 30 European countries, facilitating market access and exports. For businesses in the special diet sector, the mark serves as a competitive advantage and a recognizable indicator of safety and quality.
Why choose a certification body for AOECS?
Assessment according to AOECS requires documented audits, laboratory verification, and evaluation by a competent certification body.
Selecting an appropriate certification body is important to ensure the reliability of the process, proper assessment of compliance, and alignment with the required control and licensing framework.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to start AOECS Certification for your products
If you are interested in AOECS certification and gluten-free compliance, please contact Q-CERT for information regarding the application process, scope of assessment, laboratory testing requirements, and audit scheduling.
| Audit Information & Expectations | Application Form |
|---|---|
| – | Contact us at info@qmscert.com |