LFGB Testing — German Food Contact Material Compliance
LFGB testing refers to compliance assessment under the German Food and Feed Code (Lebensmittel- und Futtermittelgesetzbuch, LFGB). LFGB is one of the most stringent regulatory frameworks in Europe for materials and articles intended to come into contact with food.
Products that pass LFGB testing are considered suitable for contact with food under normal or foreseeable conditions of use and are widely accepted across the EU market.
Regulatory Background
LFGB is enforced in Germany and aligned with EU food contact regulations, including Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004. Due to its strict requirements and comprehensive chemical controls, LFGB testing is often used as a high-standard benchmark for food contact material compliance in Europe.
LFGB compliance is frequently required or requested by European buyers, retailers, and brands.
Products Subject to LFGB Testing
LFGB testing typically applies to materials and products intended to contact food, including:
Kitchenware and cookware
Tableware and utensils
Food containers and packaging
Silicone, rubber, and plastic food contact articles
Metal, ceramic, glass, and coated products
Baby feeding products and drinkware
Both finished products and individual materials may be evaluated.
Key LFGB Test Requirements
LFGB testing may include one or more of the following assessments, depending on product material and intended use:
Overall migration testing
Specific migration testing
Sensory testing (odor and taste transfer)
Heavy metals and restricted substances
Silicone and rubber-specific requirements
Phthalates, PAHs, and other regulated chemicals
Test conditions are selected based on food type, contact temperature, and duration of use.
Typical LFGB Testing Workflow
1) Product and Material Assessment
Technical review to determine applicable LFGB clauses, test scope, and suitable simulants based on product use conditions.
2) Sample Preparation and Conditioning
Samples are prepared and conditioned according to defined protocols to ensure representative and reproducible results.
3) Laboratory Testing Execution
Testing is performed under controlled laboratory conditions using standardized methods and calibrated equipment.
4) Data Evaluation and Compliance Conclusion
Results are evaluated against LFGB limits and relevant EU requirements. Non-conformities are clearly identified with technical feedback.
5) Reporting and Documentation
A professional LFGB test report is issued, detailing methods, results, and compliance conclusions.
Deliverables
Typical LFGB testing deliverables include:
LFGB test report
Migration and chemical analysis results
Sensory test conclusions (where applicable)
Compliance summary for customer or regulatory use
These documents can support EU market access, buyer audits, and quality assurance programs.
Why LFGB Testing Matters
Non-compliant food contact products may result in:
Import rejection or product recall
Retailer non-acceptance
Regulatory enforcement actions
Brand reputation risk
LFGB testing helps demonstrate product safety and regulatory diligence in the European market.
Start Your LFGB Testing Project
Provide your product information, material composition, and intended use conditions to receive a tailored LFGB testing plan and quotation. Our team supports end-to-end LFGB testing, from scope definition to final report delivery.