How to apply for German LFGB testing and certification for baking molds
Date:2025-08-20 09:54:14 Classification
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LFGB testing is performed on all materials, including products manufactured using the latest technologies. Examples include testing the chrome plating on grills, the heat resistance of Teflon coatings on cooking pans, and testing the silicone seals in kettles. The complete process and key points for applying for German LFGB testing and certification for baking molds include:
I. Core Certification Process
1. Consultation and Evaluation
- Provide product information to the certification body: material (silicone/metal/ceramic, etc.), intended use, production process, and food contact type.
- The body confirms the test items (e.g., testing for volatile organic compounds and heavy metal migration for silicone; testing for chromium/nickel leaching for metals).
2. Contract Signing and Document Preparation
- Sign an agreement to clarify the cost, timeline, and test scope (reference price: silicone material testing is approximately 1,000-2,000 RMB per item).
- Prepare 5-10 samples (must be clean and free of contamination) and the following materials: application form in both Chinese and English, product instructions, and material composition list.
3. Laboratory Testing
- Silicone Molds: Three migration tests (water/3% acetic acid/10% ethanol solution), volatile organic compounds (VOM), peroxide value, and organotin compounds.
- Metal Molds: Dissolution testing of heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, chromium, and nickel.
- General Testing: Sensory Evaluation (odor/taste transfer) and overall migration.
4. Audit and Corrective Action
- The laboratory will issue a test report. Any failed items will require corrections and re-sampling (if migration exceeds the standard, the formulation must be adjusted).
5. Obtaining Certificates and Labels
- Upon passing the test, the LFGB certificate and the knife and fork logo will be obtained (to be marked on the product or packaging).
II. Key Considerations
1. Special Material Requirements
- Silicone: Focus on testing for nitrosamine content and volatile organic compounds.
- Coated molds (e.g., Teflon): Additional testing of the coating's high-temperature stability is required.
2. Turnaround Time and Cost
- Typical Turnaround Time: 5-7 working days (longer for complex materials).
- Fee Structure: Basic testing fee (1,000-2,000 RMB/material) + Additional Item Fees (e.g., coating testing).
3. Certificate Validity
- No fixed validity period, but retesting is required if the material formula or process changes.
III. Optimization Suggestions
- Sample Pretreatment: Thoroughly clean the mold of residual release agent to avoid interference with migration testing.
- Select Compliant Materials: Prioritize LFGB-certified raw materials (e.g., food-grade silicone) to shorten lead times.