Retailers and producers of food contact materials face rising requirements, especially in Denmark. As trade-e-bility customers report, the Danish Veterinary and Food Agency is currently conducting targeted checks on online retailers and imposing high standards regarding documentation, processes and response times. Companies must act quickly to address these pressing challenges.
Digital inspections with high standards
The agency currently conducts digital inspection sessions and specifically selects FCM products. Companies are required to deliver comprehensive documentation ‘just in time’ and in accordance with specified standards, including:
- Manuals
- Declarations of conformity (DoC)
- Food safety evidence
- Invoices for traceability
In addition, internal billings, product images, traceability data and customer processes may be requested. To meet these requirements, several departments must be available simultaneously, such as product support, accounting, customer service and localisation.
Legal framework in Denmark
In addition to EU regulations, certain national requirements apply:
- Importer status: As a “first importer”, extensive documentation obligations apply (Executive Order no. 822/2013).
- Registration requirement: For FCM product turnover of 50,000 DKK or more, including random/unannounced inspections.
- Declaration of Conformity (DoC): Mandatory under EU Regulation 1935/2004, it must be available for inspection at all times.
- Traceability: Complete supply chain records must always be accessible.
Supply chain transparency
Companies must be able to disclose the entire supply chain, complete from supplier to customer, in real time. This ensures that a recall can be carried out within a few hours in case of an emergency.
As inspections become increasingly stringent, especially within the online retail sector, companies are required to maintain thorough and up-to-date documentation. Additionally, real-time traceability must be effective, and information should be readily accessible for internal use at any time. If you are caught unprepared, not only are you risking complaints but also other serious consequences such as sales bans. Therefore, it is advisable to review your FCM compliance promptly and set up procedures to ensure ongoing adherence to all requirements.
Do you have any concerns or enquiries regarding food contact materials? Simply call +49 40/750687-300 or send us an email, and trade-e-bility will be happy to assist you.
