German LFGB testing process for stainless steel
Date：2025-08-25 09:45:55 Classification
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Stainless steel products exported to Germany must obtain LFGB (Lebensmittel- und Futtermittelgesetzbuch) certification to ensure they meet food contact material safety standards. The following is the full testing process and key points based on the latest regulations:
I. Preliminary Preparation and Application
1. Material Submission
- Provide detailed product information: material composition (e.g., 304/316 stainless steel), dimensions, intended use, and a brief description of the production process.
- Specify contact conditions: food type (acidic/greasy), operating temperature, and contact duration.
- Sample Preparation: Send representative finished products (e.g., stainless steel pots and cutlery) as required by the testing agency. Typically, 3-5 samples are required.
2. Agency Evaluation and Contract Signing
- The testing agency reviews the materials, determines the test items, and provides a quote (reference price: basic testing approximately 1,000-3,000 RMB).
- Sign the contract and pay the fees.
II. Core Testing Items
According to LFGB §30/31, stainless steel materials must undergo the following tests:
1. Heavy Metal Migration Test
- Test for the release of lead, cadmium, chromium, nickel, etc. (e.g., lead ≤ 0.05 mg/kg, cadmium ≤ 0.01 mg/kg).
- Simulate actual use conditions (e.g., high-temperature heating, acidic solution immersion).
2. Sensory Testing
- Evaluate odor and taste transfer: whether the sample produces an off-flavor or affects the taste after contact with food.
3. Material Composition Analysis
- Verify that the stainless steel grade complies with standards (e.g., EN 10088) and exclude banned alloys.
4. Special Items (if applicable)
- Coated products (e.g., non-stick pans): Additional testing for PFOA and formaldehyde emissions from the coating.
- Welded components: Test for heavy metal migration from the solder.
III. Testing Process and Cycle
1. Laboratory Phase
- Initial inspection of the material structure to eliminate obvious defects.
- Migration tests (using a 4% acetic acid solution to simulate acidic foods) and heavy metal analysis are conducted in a step-by-step manner.
- Standard turnaround time: 5-7 working days (extended to 10 days for complex samples).
2. Review and Report Issuance
- A bilingual report in German and English, including a knife and fork symbol (certification of compliance), is generated upon passing the test.
- Failure requires rectification and re-submission of samples.
IV. Post-Certification Considerations
- Certificate Validity Period: No fixed number of years, but changes to material formulations or processes require re-testing.
- Market Supervision: German customs conducts regular spot checks, and non-compliant products will be removed from shelves or fined.
- Labeling Requirements: Products must be labeled "LFGB compliant" and the knife and fork symbol.
Key Recommendations
1. Choosing a Compliance Agency: Prioritize laboratories accredited by DAkkS (German Accreditation Board), such as Dezewei.
2. Pre-testing to mitigate risks: Test high-risk items (such as nickel migration) in advance to avoid failures in the formal testing.
3. Document integrity: retain the test report and material declaration (DoC) for customs inspection.
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