The Plant-Based Certification Program is based on a management system approach and provides the core structure and requirements to support businesses in the production of plant-based food products. 

This certification, developed by BRCGS, sets out the necessary criteria to ensure that certified products do not contain any animal-derived materials. 

It can be implemented as an add-on module to a GFSI-recognized BRCGS certification covering the production, processing, and packaging of: 

  • Processed foods (private label or third-party manufacturing) 
  • Ingredients used by food service, catering, and food manufacturers 
  • Animal feed (only through GFSI-recognized programs) 
  • Natural health products 

This certification ensures that businesses producing plant-based products meet strict requirements for safety, quality, and legality, offering consumers the assurance that the certified products are 100% plant-based and free from animal-derived ingredients. 

What is the Plant-Based Certification Program? 

The BRCGS Plant-Based Certification Program is designed to ensure that certified products meet the highest standards. It outlines key requirements that businesses must implement to verify that their products are free from animal-derived components. 

Key Elements of the Standard 

  • Plant-Based Assurance: Final products must be strictly plant-based and free from animal-derived ingredients. 
  • Product Legality: Compliance with local and international legislation, including correct labeling and packaging of plant-based products. 
  • Process Transparency: Full documentation and traceability of all ingredients and production processes. 

Benefits of Plant-Based Certification 

The Plant-Based Certification offers multiple advantages to businesses: 

  • Market Access

Essential for companies aiming to sell plant-based products in global markets in the food, feed, and health sectors.

  • Increased Consumer Trust

Provides assurance that products are truly plant-based, and meet rigorous standards of safety, quality, and ethics.

  • Regulatory Compliance

Ensures alignment with national and international regulatory requirements.

  • Risk Reduction

Minimizes the risk of cross-contamination with animal-based ingredients.

  • Competitive Advantage

Enhances brand credibility in the plant-based sector and strengthens consumer confidence.

Who Can Apply for Plant-Based Certification? 

  • Food Manufacturers and Processors: Companies producing plant-based foods, beverages, and ingredients. 
  • Packaging Suppliers: Businesses providing packaging materials suitable for plant-based products. 
  • Animal Feed Manufacturers: Companies producing plant-based animal feeds aligned with GFSI-recognized standards. 
  • Natural Health Product Manufacturers: Producers of plant-based supplements and wellness products. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the Plant-Based Certification Program? 

It is a BRCGS certification scheme that sets strict criteria to verify that products are entirely plant-based, free from animal-derived ingredients, and compliant with safety and legal standards. 

What are the main benefits of certification? 

  • Guarantees that products are 100% plant-based 
  • Increases trust among consumers, partners, and distributors 
  • Opens access to markets that require such certifications 

Is Plant-Based Certification mandatory? 

No, it is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended for companies wishing to demonstrate their commitment to the plant-based market and gain a competitive edge. 

Q-CERT: Your Trusted Partner in Plant-Based Certification 

The Certification Company Q-CERT offers full support for businesses seeking Plant-Based Certification, helping them achieve the highest standards in safety, quality, and compliance. 

For more information or to submit a request, please contact Q-CERT or visit the official BRCGS website. 

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