Processing German LFGB certification reports for plastic storage containers
Date:2026-08-06 10:29:11 Classification
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Guide to Obtaining LFGB Certification for Plastic Storage Containers in Germany
I. Why Do Plastic Storage Containers Require LFGB Certification?
LFGB (Lebensmittel- und Futtermittelgesetzbuch) is the abbreviation for the German Food, Commodities and Feed Act, which imposes strict requirements on materials that come into contact with food. Plastic storage containers used for storing food (such as coffee beans, tea, biscuits, and other dry goods) exported to Germany or sold in the German market must obtain LFGB certification; otherwise, they may face the risk of being removed from shelves, detained at customs, or subject to penalties.
II. Core Testing Items
LFGB testing of plastic storage containers focuses on the migration and safety of hazardous substances. Common testing items include:
| Test Category | Specific Item | Description
| Sensory Testing | Odor and Taste Testing | Simulates whether an off-odor is produced after contact with food
| Chemical Migration Testing | Heavy Metal Migration (Lead, Cadmium, etc.) | Prevents food contamination by hazardous metals
| Specific Substance Migration | Formaldehyde, Primary Aromatic Amines, Bisphenol A (BPA) | Primarily targets plastic materials
| Additive Release | Plasticizers, Antioxidants | Assess long-term safety
| Total Migration Limit | OMOL (Overall Migration Limit) | Simulates contact with water/acids/alcoholic foods
| Microbiological Testing | Total Bacterial Count, Coliform Bacteria | Requires assessment in some cases
Note: LFGB certification has stricter limits for sensitive substances such as BPA, plasticizers, and aromatic amines than the EU 1935/2004 standard.
III. Required Documents
1. Product Information: Product name, model, specifications, material description (e.g., PP, PE, PET, etc.)
2. Composition Ratio: List of plastic raw materials and additive descriptions
3. Usage Conditions: Whether it comes into contact with liquids, acidic foods, or high-temperature foods
4. Product Samples: Usually 5-10 finished products are required for testing.
5. Applicant Information: Company name, address, contact information
6. Product Instructions: German or English version, including usage precautions.
IV. Application Process
Step 1: Consultation and Assessment → Submit product information and confirm applicable regulations and testing plans.
Step 2: Sample Submission → Mail samples to an LFGB-accredited laboratory (e.g., Dezewei Testing CNAS Registration No.: L8083).
Step 3: Contract Signing → Clarify testing items, cycle, and fees.
Step 4: Laboratory Testing → Conduct comprehensive testing according to LFGB standards.
Step 5: Report Issuance → The laboratory issues an English/German test report.
Step 6: Certificate Issuance → Upon successful testing, the laboratory will issue an LFGB test report (German LFGB does not require mandatory certification, but the test report is necessary proof of market access).
Special Note: German LFGB regulations are compatible with EU 1935/2004 regulations, but LFGB requirements are more stringent. The report must include the phrase "LFGB Declaration of Conformity," and is recognized by German customs, retailers, and Amazon Germany.
V. Timeline and Fee Reference
| Project | Details
| Typical Timeline | 5-7 business days
| Fee Range | Approximately 800-2000 RMB (depending on specific testing items)
| Report Language | English + German bilingual version recommended
VI. Practical Notes
Material Identification: Product packaging or the product itself should be marked with food-grade symbols (such as cup and fork symbols) and material codes.
BPA-Free Declaration: If the product claims to be "BPA-free," a specific testing report is required as supporting documentation.
Temperature Limitations: If the product indicates it can be microwaved or frozen, migration testing under the corresponding conditions is required.
Amazon Requirements: When uploading the compliance report, a German Declaration of Conformity must be provided simultaneously.
Report Validity: LFGB reports do not have a uniform validity period, but the German market typically accepts reports from the last 1-2 years.