Gluten-free certification according to the AOECS standard

Gluten-free products are rapidly gaining popularity, but consumers want to be certain that what’s stated on the label is accurate. Certification according to the AOECS standard for gluten-free food products demonstrates that your products meet the requirements for gluten-free production and processing. In a cooperation with the Dutch coeliac society (Nederlandse Coeliakie Vereniging, NCV), Kiwa is the preferred certification partner in the Benelux region.

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Whether driven by medical necessity or personal preference, consumers purchasing gluten-free products must be able to trust that the product is truly gluten-free. The Association of European Coeliac Societies (AOECS) has developed an internationally recognized standard for this purpose. Certification against the AOECS standard demonstrates that your products comply with the requirements for gluten-free food products. In addition, through the Dutch coeliac society (NCV) you can apply for a licence to use the Crossed Grain trademark, the most widely recognized symbol for gluten-free products in Europe.

What does the AOECS standard involve?

The term ‘gluten-free’ suggests a complete absence of gluten, but in practice a minimal presence is permitted. Research shows that people with coeliac disease can safely tolerate a very small amount of gluten. For this reason, the legal limit for the designation ‘gluten-free’ has been set at a maximum of 20 mg of gluten per kilogram of product (20 ppm), in accordance with EU Regulation (EU) 828/2014.

The AOECS standard provides a practical framework for meeting these legal requirements and ensures that the entire production process, from raw material to packaging, is controlled to prevent gluten contamination. During the audit, Kiwa assesses whether all AOECS requirements are met, allowing you to market your products as gluten-free with confidence.

Certification is not possible for products consisting of a single unprocessed, naturally gluten-free ingredient, such as fresh vegetables, fruit or milk. Products that undergo a processing step, such as fruit bars or yogurt with added ingredients, are eligible for certification.

Why obtain a gluten-free certificate?

Demand for gluten-free products continues to grow. In 2023, the Dutch market exceeded €70 million, with expected annual growth of 3 to 5%. A gluten-free certificate offers manufacturers and traders an important competitive advantage:

  • Access to the growing gluten-free products market
  • Use of the Crossed Grain trademark on packaging, websites and marketing materials
  • Increased consumer confidence through independent verification
  • International recognition within the AOECS network
  • The possibility to combine certification with other schemes, such as FSSC 22000, IFS, BRCGS or ISO 22000, for greater efficiency and cost savings.

Why choose gluten-free certification through Kiwa?

Kiwa is the preferred supplier of NCV, the Dutch coeliac society and therefore your designated certification partner within the Benelux region. Our experienced auditors specialize in food safety and process control within the food industry, enabling them to guide your organization professionally throughout the certification process. At Kiwa, audits for gluten-free products can also be efficiently combined with existing GFSI or ISO 22000 certifications, saving both time and costs. Certification through Kiwa also provides international recognition and access to the full AOECS network, helping to strengthen your export opportunities.

 

What does the certification process look like?

    Initial inquiry

    Submit your certification application and complete the application form.

    Proposal

    We determine the scope of the certification and send you a quotation.

    Audit plan

    Once the quotation is signed, we schedule the audit and prepare an audit plan.

    Audit

    The auditor assesses your processes, administration and organization on-site, from daily operations to top management.

    Improvement plan

    Any nonconformities are discussed immediately. If necessary, you prepare an improvement plan and provide evidence of the implemented measures (within 28 days after the final audit day).

    Audit report

    All findings are recorded in an audit report, which is reviewed by a second assessor.

    Certification decision

    If the result is positive, you will receive your certificate and audit report. The certificate is valid for one year. An annual audit ensures ongoing compliance.

Reporting a recall or safety warning

If higher levels than 20 ppm gluten are  detected in a product, you are required to report the issue within 3 working days after discovery to both the NCV (licentie@glutenvrij.nl) and Kiwa. After receiving the notification, Kiwa will assess the situation and contact you regarding any necessary follow-up actions. For more information, please visit the page on reporting recalls, withdrawals and incidents.

About AOECS and NCV

The Association of European Coeliac Societies (AOECS) is the European umbrella organization responsible for managing the gluten-free certification standard. Within the Benelux region, this scheme is managed by the Dutch coeliac society NCV.

 

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