SCS Global Services, a leader in third-party certification, announces the launch of its Plant-Based Certification Program. The program, built around a new standard from the nonprofit development body SCS Standards, seeks to help consumers make better-informed choices by distinguishing plant-based brands through rigorous auditing, testing and labeling requirements.
“Our aim is to provide independent confirmation of claims… based on the most robust standard available”
Certification under the new SCS-109 Standard confirms that products do not contain any animal-derived inputs; products eligible to receive certification include food, beverages, CBD, and body care products.
According to the standard, products for human and animal consumption must contain a minimum of 95% plant-based ingredients, while other items, such as body care products, must contain a minimum of 50% plant-derived ingredients.
SCS states that the certification’s audit mechanisms, procedures, and quality systems are aligned with its other certification programs, such as the SCS Gluten-Free, making it possible for companies to bundle plant-based certification together with other product label claims.
SCS-109 is the latest addition to the company’s suite of consumer labeling standards, which also includes USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, and more.
Certification growth
As the global popularity of plant-based foods continues to grow, so does the number of products and companies carrying official vegan or plant-based certifications. In March 2022, the UK-based Vegan Society announced it had registered its 60,000th product under the widely recognized Vegan Trademark.
“Robust standard”
Based in California, SCS Global is a leader in third-party environmental and sustainability verification, auditing, and testing. As a chartered Benefit Corporation, its programs recognize achievements in climate mitigation, food and agriculture, green building, forestry, and many other sectors.
“We are excited to support companies who are offering plant-based alternatives,” said Lucy Anderson, Director of Project Claims Certification in SCS Global Services’ food and agriculture services division. “Our aim is to provide independent confirmation of claims in this sector based on the most robust standard available, with stringent auditing and testing protocols.”
