EN 15593 Certification

Important standard for hygiene management systems in the packaging industry

With certification according to EN 15593, manufacturers of packaging materials can have their hygiene management audited according to a standard recognized throughout Europe. The certificate offers the opportunity to open up new markets while at the same time ensuring a high level of product safety

Efficient detection of weak points

Reduced liability risks during production

Improved prevention of product defects

Confidence assured for consumers and retailers

EN 15593 - Internationally recognized standard for the packaging industry

EN 15593 was developed as a European alternative to the British-Canadian standard BRCGS Packaging as an internationally valid standard for hygiene management in the packaging sector and was first published in 2008. In the meantime, certification according to EN 15593 has become standard for European companies in the packaging industry.

EN 15593 certification can be applied to companies of all sizes and types. The audit focuses on the hygiene management of packaging companies with regard to possible physical, chemical or biological contamination.The structure of EN 15593 is based on the same model as ISO 9001 and other ISO standards. EN 15593 certification is valid for three years and can be refreshed during a recertification audit.Because EN 15593 was developed on the basis of ISO standards, it is easier to combine with corresponding ISO certifications.

Show less

Which companies should be certified according to EN 15593?

In general, EN 15593 primarily affects manufacturers of primary packaging that comes into direct contact with food.

Specifically, the following companies should be certified according to EN 15593:

Manufacturers of food packaging (primary packaging)
Manufacturers of raw materials and components for food packaging
Suppliers for manufacturers of food packaging
Companies that transport or store food packaging

Show less

Structure and contents of EN 15593

EN 15593 shares the principles of hazard analysis and risk assessment with ISO 9001 and ISO 22000.

The central chapters of EN 15593 cover the topics "Hygiene management system", "Hazard analysis and risk assessment" as well as "Sources of contamination" and "Requirements for the plant and personnel". In the chapter "Hygiene management", the responsibility of the management, traceability of products as well as the monitoring of products are audited. Among the possible sources of contamination, physical or chemical contaminants play a role in addition to biological ones. In buildings, equipment is audited in addition to facilities.

Show less

This is how EN 15593 certification works

In the first step, you discuss your company, your management system and the goals of certification with us. On this basis, you will promptly receive a detailed and transparent offer, tailored to your individual needs.

The certification audit starts with a system analysis (audit stage 1) and an evaluation of your documentation, objectives, the results of your management review and internal audits. In this process, we determine whether your hygiene management system is sufficiently developed and ready for certification.
In the next step (system audit stage 2), your DQS auditor will assess the effectiveness of all management processes on site. In a final meeting, your auditor will provide you with a detailed presentation of the results and possible improvement potential for your company. If necessary, action plans will be agreed upon.

After the certification audit, the results are evaluated by the independent certification board of DQS. You will receive an audit report documenting the audit results. If all standard requirements are met, you will receive an internationally recognized certificate.

To ensure that your company continues to meet all important criteria of the standard after the certification audit, we conduct surveillance audits on an annual basis. This provides competent support for the continuous improvement of your management system and business processes.

The certificate is valid for a maximum of three years. Recertification is carried out in good time before expiry to ensure continued compliance with the applicable standard requirements. Upon compliance, a new certificate is issued.

How much does EN 15593 certification cost?

The cost of EN 15593 certification depends, among other things, on the size of your company and the complexity of its processes. We will be happy to make you an individual offer for your company without obligation.