VLOG

VLOG is a German certification standard governing the “Ohne Gentechnik” (Without Genetic Modification) labeling of products. Developed by the VLOG organization, it guarantees that foods and their raw materials are free of genetically modified organisms (GMO-free) and have not been produced using genetic engineering, in accordance with German legislation. The “Ohne Gentechnik” certification is one of the most recognized GMO-free labels in Europe, used primarily by food producers, agricultural cooperatives, and feed processing companies.

The VLOG standard is intended for companies involved in the production, processing, and distribution of food and feed that wish to demonstrate compliance with market demands for GMO-free products.

Specifically, it applies to:

• Food producers using raw materials without genetic modification
• Livestock farms and feed producers wanting to ensure their feeds are GMO-free
• Food processing and trading businesses looking to label products as “Ohne Gentechnik”
• Commercial operations and private-label companies seeking market differentiation with GMO-free products

To obtain VLOG certification, a company must implement a control and traceability system guaranteeing that its products do not contain, or are not exposed to, GMOs. The process includes:

1. Analyzing raw materials and suppliers to ensure no use of genetically modified ingredients
2. Developing a traceability system enabling complete monitoring of the production chain
3. Sampling and laboratory analyses to verify the absence of GMOs
4. Inspection by an accredited certification body, which assesses company compliance with the VLOG standard
5. Issuing a certificate and permission to use the “Ohne Gentechnik” label if all requirements are met

The certification is valid for one year, requiring annual audits to confirm ongoing compliance.

The complexity of implementing VLOG depends on the supply chain’s complexity and raw material management. Companies already employing traceability and quality control systems such as ISO 22000, IFS, and BRC can more easily integrate VLOG requirements.

The main challenge lies in securing raw materials guaranteed to be free of genetic modification and in documenting compliance through testing and inspections. Collaboration with specialized consultants can streamline preparations and ensure successful certification.

VLOG certification is carried out by accredited certification bodies that evaluate the company against standard criteria. The process begins by submitting an application to a recognized certification body, which then assesses the company’s production and control processes.

An on-site inspection follows to confirm compliance with the VLOG standard, and simultaneous sampling and lab analyses verify the absence of GMOs. If all requirements are met, the VLOG certificate is issued, allowing the “Ohne Gentechnik” label. The certification is valid for one year, with annual audits required to ensure continued compliance.

VLOG certification and use of the “Ohne Gentechnik” label provide significant advantages:

• Increasing consumer trust, as more consumers opt for GMO-free products
• Complying with legal requirements, especially in Germany and other European countries focused on transparency and food safety
• Boosting competitiveness, as many retail chains now require the “Ohne Gentechnik” label on their sourced products
• Market differentiation by offering GMO-free products that match current consumer trends
• Improving raw material and supply chain management through rigorous traceability procedures

The certification process can range from 2 to 4 months, depending on company readiness, the availability of analyses, and the timing of the on-site inspection.

For companies already operating quality and traceability systems, it can be faster. However, newly established businesses without such structures may require more time to prepare.