What is it?
The V‑LOG (Verband Lebensmittel ohne Gentechnik eV) certification is a voluntary standard that guarantees that a food product is produced without the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and components derived from GMOs, in compliance with European legislation and additional criteria defined by the standard.The certification allows the use of the “Ohne Gentechnik” (“without genetic engineering”) brand , which is particularly recognized and appreciated by European consumers, especially in the German market.
V‑LOG does not limit itself to the final product, but evaluates the entire supply chain, including ingredients, additives, enzymes, processing aids and – for products of animal origin – the feed used.
Key points
Scope of application
V‑LOG certification applies to:- Plant-based foods
- Foods of animal origin (milk, meat, eggs, derivatives)
- Ingredients, semi-finished products and processed products
Main requirements
GMO exclusion:- Ban on the use of GMO ingredients or derivatives
- Ban on additives, flavorings, enzymes and adjuvants obtained from GMOs
- Feed management (for products of animal origin):
- Exclusive use of non-GMO feed
- Compliance with minimum conversion periods (e.g.:
- Milk: at least 3 months
- Beef cattle: up to 12 months, depending on the species)
Traceability and control
- Mandatory documentation system to demonstrate the origin of raw materials
- Complete traceability along the entire supply chain
- Assessment of the risk of accidental contamination by GMOs
- Initial and periodic audits by recognized certification bodies
- Possible laboratory tests in case of detected risk
Regulatory compliance
- Aligned with the EU GMO Regulation
- More restrictive standard than the simple "GMO-free" labelling required by European legislation
Advantages
- Easier access to European markets most sensitive to the "GMO-free" issue
- Competitive differentiation on the shelf and in B2B channels
- Greater attractiveness for large-scale retail trade and international buyers
- Enhancement of quality and corporate transparency
- Effective communication tool.