The product evaluation of the certification program includes three steps:
Document check: This is to ensure that the product meets the criteria of the certification program and that any required official approvals are available. Certain documents are check annually. The required documents can be found on tab certification at the respective product category (currently just in German).
Screening/analysis: Products are verified for illicit and critical substances. The frequency and type of analysis depends on the product category and ingredients. The manufacturer takes reserve samples of all production batches.
On-site inspections: Appointed control bodies regularly inspect the manufacturing sites. The initial inspection occurs before the first certification. The subsequent inspections are every one to three years, depending on the risk classification. Here, the documents submitted and the documentation on purchasing, production, sales and QS measures are checked. Additionally, a quantity plausibility calculation is made and samples are taken for screening.