Introduction

With growing global focus on environmental and health safety, SVHC (Substances of Very High Concern) testing is critical for industries like luggage manufacturing. This guide explains SVHC testing for luggage and the EU SVHC environmental standard under REACH, helping businesses ensure compliance and market access.

What is SVHC Testing for Luggage?

SVHC testing, mandated by the EU REACH Regulation (EC No 1907/2006), evaluates whether luggage products (e.g., backpacks, suitcases) and their components (e.g., leather, textiles, plastics, zippers) contain SVHCs above 0.1% w/w, protecting health and the environment.

SVHC Candidate List

• Authority: European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).

• Status: 247 substances (January 2025).

• Properties: Carcinogenic, mutagenic, reprotoxic, persistent, or bioaccumulative (e.g., phthalates, heavy metals, PFOA).

Relevance to Luggage

• Phthalates (e.g., DEHP): PVC linings.

• Lead, Cadmium: Zippers, dyes.

• Formaldehyde: Leather, textiles.

• PFOA: Waterproof coatings.

• Children’s Luggage (≤12 years): Requires stricter testing due to higher chemical sensitivity.

What is the EU SVHC Environmental Standard?

REACH Regulation

• Name: Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (EC No 1907/2006).

• Goal: Ensure chemical safety across the lifecycle of products sold in the EU.

• SVHC Requirements:

• List: 247 SVHCs (January 2025), updated biannually.

• Threshold: >0.1% w/w triggers notification to downstream users; >1 ton/year requires ECHA reporting.

• Disclosure: Respond to SVHC inquiries within 45 days.

• Authorisation: Some SVHCs require special approval.

Features

• High-Risk Substances: Carcinogens, reprotoxicants, PBT/vPvB substances.

• Dynamic Updates: Biannual ECHA updates.

• Broad Scope: Applies to all “articles” (e.g., luggage, clothing).

• Green Focus: Promotes substitution of hazardous substances.

SVHC Testing Details for Luggage

Substances Tested

• Phthalates (DEHP, DBP, BBP, DIBP).

• Heavy Metals (lead, cadmium).

• Formaldehyde, Azo Dyes.

• Perfluorinated Compounds (PFOA, PFOS).

Components Tested

• Leather: Formaldehyde, chromium VI, azo dyes.

• Textiles: Azo dyes, PFOA, formaldehyde.

• Plastics: Phthalates, cadmium, BPA.

• Metals: Lead, cadmium, nickel.

• Coatings/Inks, Adhesives: PFOA, VOCs.

Testing Methods

• XRF: Screens heavy metals.

• GC-MS: Detects phthalates, PFOA, VOCs.

• HPLC: Analyzes azo dyes, formaldehyde.

• ICP-MS: Quantifies metals.

How to Conduct SVHC Testing

1. Consult: Contact an accredited lab (e.g., Huabiao Testing) with product details.

2. Submit Samples: Provide 2–3 luggage samples with material documentation.

3. Testing: Test homogeneous materials for 247 SVHCs per REACH.

4. Report: Receive a compliance report; reformulate if non-compliant.

5. Documentation: Compile technical file, issue REACH Declaration, and notify ECHA’s SCIP database if needed.

Why Choose Huabiao（GIG） Testing?

Huabiao（GIG） Testing offers comprehensive SVHC testing solutions with an experienced team and advanced equipment. Accredited with CMA/CNAS, our reliable data and internationally recognized reports help clients manage risks, meet market requirements, and succeed globally.

Introduction

Food safety is paramount, and food contact materials play a critical role in ensuring safe dining experiences. LFGB certification verifies the safety of these materials for use in Germany and the EU. This guide outlines LFGB certification requirements for common materials and the testing process.

What is LFGB Certification?

LFGB (Lebensmittel-, Bedarfsgegenstände- und Futtermittelgesetzbuch) is a German regulation governing food contact materials, aligned with EU Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004. LFGB testing ensures materials do not release harmful substances into food, protecting consumer health and enabling market access.

LFGB Certification Requirements for Common Materials

1. Plastics (PP, PE, PC, PET)

• Uses: Yogurt maker liners, straws, packaging bags, lids.

• Requirements:

• Primary Aromatic Amines (PAA): ≤0.01 mg/kg.

• Bisphenol A (BPA): ≤0.05 mg/kg.

• Phthalates (DEHP, DBP): ≤0.1%–1.5%.

• Sensory: No odor/taste migration.

• Overall Migration: ≤10 mg/dm² (simulants: 3% acetic acid, 10% ethanol, olive oil).

• Specific Migration:

• Prohibited: REACH SVHCs.

• Regulation: EU (EC) No 10/2011.

• Notes: Provide material composition. Test at high temperatures (70°C–100°C) for hot uses. Verify biodegradable plastics (e.g., PLA).

2. Silicone (Food-Grade)

• Uses: Yogurt maker seals, straws, packaging.

• Requirements:

• VOCs: ≤0.5%.

• Peroxide Residues: Fully decomposed.

• Organosilicon: No low-molecular-weight siloxanes.

• Sensory: No odor/taste migration.

• Overall Migration: ≤10 mg/dm².

• Specific Migration:

• Prohibited: REACH substances.

• Notes: Use platinum-cured silicone. Specify vulcanization and additives. Test under actual conditions.

3. Stainless Steel (304, 316)

• Uses: Yogurt maker liners, straws.

• Requirements:

• Lead (Pb): ≤0.01 mg/kg.

• Cadmium (Cd): ≤0.005 mg/kg.

• Nickel (Ni): ≤0.14 mg/kg.

• Sensory: No odor/taste impact.

• Overall Migration: ≤10 mg/dm².

• Specific Migration:

• Regulation: EU (EC) No 1935/2004, DIN 51032.

• Notes: Use food-grade steel. Test post-polishing/welding. Use acidic simulants for acidic foods.

4. Glass

• Uses: Yogurt maker containers, straws.

• Requirements:

• Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd): ≤0.01 mg/L.

• Sensory: No odor/taste impact.

• Overall Migration: ≤10 mg/dm².

• Specific Migration:

• Regulation: EU (EC) No 1935/2004, DIN 51032.

• Notes: Test decorative glass for heavy metals. Verify thermal stability for heat-resistant glass.

5. Ceramics

• Uses: Yogurt maker liners, containers.

• Requirements:

• Lead (Pb): ≤0.8 mg/dm² (flat), ≤0.2 mg/L (containers).

• Cadmium (Cd): ≤0.07 mg/dm² (flat), ≤0.02 mg/L (containers).

• Sensory: No odor/taste impact.

• Specific Migration:

• Regulation: EU 84/500/EEC.

• Notes: Test colored glazes. Use acidic simulants and high temperatures.

6. Paper/Cardboard

• Uses: Straws, packaging bags.

• Requirements:

• Fluorescent Whitening Agents: Not detected.

• PAA: ≤0.01 mg/kg.

• PCBs: ≤2 mg/kg.

• Sensory: No odor/taste migration.

• Overall Migration: ≤10 mg/dm².

• Specific Migration:

• Regulation: EU (EC) No 1935/2004, BfR XXXVI.

• Notes: Use food-grade paper. Test coatings/inks. Verify water resistance for wet use.

7. Biodegradable Materials (PLA, Bamboo Fiber)

• Uses: Straws, packaging bags.

• Requirements:

• Monomer Residues (e.g., lactic acid): ≤0.05 mg/kg.

• Heavy Metals, Plasticizers: Meet limits.

• Biodegradability: EN 13432 or ASTM D6400.

• Sensory: No odor/taste migration.

• Overall Migration: ≤10 mg/dm².

• Specific Migration:

• Notes: Provide formulation details. Test stability under actual conditions.

8. General Requirements

• Testing Conditions: Simulants (3% acetic acid, 10%–50% ethanol, olive oil) and temperatures (40°C–100°C) based on use.

• Prohibited Substances: REACH SVHCs, RoHS restrictions.

• Mark: Compliant materials may use the LFGB “knife and fork” symbol.

How to Conduct LFGB Testing

1. Consult: Contact an accredited lab (e.g., Huabiao Testing) with product details.

2. Submit Samples: Provide 2–3 samples with material and process documentation.

3. Testing: Conduct migration, sensory, and composition tests per EU (EC) No 1935/2004 and material-specific standards.

4. Report: Receive a compliance report for regulatory or buyer use.

Why Choose Huabiao Testing?

Huabiao（GIG） Testing offers comprehensive LFGB certification solutions with an experienced team and advanced equipment. Accredited with CMA/CNAS, our reliable data and internationally recognized reports help clients manage risks, meet market requirements, and succeed globally.

Introduction

RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) testing is essential for drones sold in the EU, ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations. This guide explains what drone RoHS testing entails, the substances tested, and the process to achieve compliance.

What is Drone RoHS Testing?

RoHS is an EU directive (2011/65/EU, amended by 2015/863) restricting 10 hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (EEE), including drones (operating <1000V AC or <1500V DC).

Objectives:

• Limit hazardous substances in drones.

• Enable CE marking for EU market entry (with REACH, LVD, EMC, RED).

• Meet e-commerce compliance (e.g., Amazon, eBay).

Scope: Quadcopters, fixed-wing drones, accessories (e.g., remote controllers, batteries). UK market requires UKCA compliance.

Regulations:

• RoHS 2 (2011/65/EU), 2015/863.

• EN IEC 63000:2018 (technical documentation).

• Related: REACH (EC 1907/2006), LVD (2014/35/EU), EMC (2014/30/EU), RED (2014/53/EU).

What Does Drone RoHS Testing Involve?

Restricted Substances

RoHS limits 10 substances in homogeneous materials:

• Lead (Pb): 0.1% (solder, pigments).

• Cadmium (Cd): 0.01% (pigments, batteries).

• Mercury (Hg): 0.1% (rare in drones).

• Hexavalent Chromium (Cr(VI)): 0.1% (metal coatings).

• PBB/PBDE: 0.1% (flame retardants).

• Phthalates (DEHP, BBP, DBP, DIBP): 0.1% (PVC plasticizers).

Components Tested

• Plastics: Body, remote controller, propellers (phthalates, cadmium, PBB/PBDE).

• Circuit Boards: Solder (lead), flame retardants (PBB/PBDE).

• Batteries: Lithium batteries (cadmium, lead).

• Metals: Motors, frames (hexavalent chromium, lead).

• Wires/Cables: PVC insulation (phthalates).

• Others: Adhesives, coatings, cameras, packaging (lead, phthalates).

High-Risk Substances

• Phthalates: PVC shells, wires.

• Cadmium: Colored plastics, batteries.

• Lead: Solder, stabilizers.

• PBB/PBDE: Circuit boards, plastics.

• Hexavalent Chromium: Metal coatings.

Testing Methods

• XRF: Screens metals.

• ICP-MS: Quantifies metals.

• GC-MS: Detects phthalates, PBB/PBDE.

• UV-Vis: Measures hexavalent chromium.

How to Conduct RoHS Testing

1. Consult: Contact an accredited lab (e.g., Huabiao Testing) with product details.

2. Submit Samples: Provide 2–3 drones and accessories.

3. Testing: Lab tests homogeneous materials per EN IEC 63000:2018.

4. Report: Receive compliance report; reformulate if non-compliant.

5. CE Marking: Combine with LVD, EMC, RED tests for CE certification.

Why Choose Huabiao Testing?

Huabiao Testing offers comprehensive RoHS testing solutions with an experienced team and advanced equipment. Accredited with CMA/CNAS, our reliable data and internationally recognized reports help clients manage risks, meet market requirements, and succeed globally.

Introduction

Food safety is a critical concern that affects everyone. While we enjoy delicious meals, the safety of our dining experience is often safeguarded by unassuming food contact materials. Ensuring the safety of these materials requires testing by a professional and reliable agency. This guide explores LFGB testing, its importance, and the specific testing requirements for paper cups.

What is LFGB Testing?

LFGB testing is a safety evaluation of food contact materials conducted in accordance with the German Food, Tobacco Products, Cosmetics, and Other Consumer Goods Act (Lebensmittel-, Bedarfsgegenstände- und Futtermittelgesetzbuch, or LFGB). The purpose is to ensure that products, such as paper cups, do not pose health risks to consumers during use. LFGB testing focuses on the chemical safety of raw materials and their potential impact on food, ensuring compliance with German and EU food safety standards.

LFGB is widely recognized in Europe and aligns with EU Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004, which sets general requirements for food contact materials. For paper cups, LFGB testing verifies that no harmful substances migrate into food, maintaining consumer safety and product compliance.

LFGB Testing Requirements for Paper Cups

LFGB testing for paper cups involves a series of assessments to evaluate chemical, sensory, and material safety. The key testing components include:

1. Overall Migration Testing

• Purpose: Measures the total amount of substances that may migrate from the paper cup into food under normal use conditions.

• Method: Simulates real-world scenarios using food simulants (e.g., distilled water for aqueous foods, 3% acetic acid for acidic foods, or 10–50% ethanol for alcoholic beverages) at specified temperatures and contact times.

• Limit: The overall migration must not exceed 10 mg/dm² (or 60 mg/kg of food) as per EU Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004.

• Equipment: Gravimetric analysis or chromatography techniques.

2. Specific Migration Testing

• Purpose: Evaluates the migration of specific hazardous substances, such as heavy metals (e.g., lead, cadmium), formaldehyde, or primary aromatic amines, into food.

• Method: Uses targeted analytical methods like inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for heavy metals or high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for organic compounds.

• Limits: Must comply with specific migration limits (SMLs) set by LFGB and EU regulations (e.g., 0.05 mg/kg for formaldehyde, 0.01 mg/kg for primary aromatic amines).

• Focus: Ensures compliance with Annex I of Commission Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 for plastic coatings, if applicable.

3. Sensory Testing

• Purpose: Assesses whether the paper cup affects the odor or taste of food, ensuring no alteration of sensory properties.

• Method: Conducted by trained sensory panels using standardized procedures (e.g., DIN 10955 or EN 1230-1). Paper cups are filled with food simulants, and evaluators check for off-odors or off-tastes.

• Requirement: No detectable sensory impact at levels that could affect consumer acceptance.

4. Packaging Coating and Ink Composition Analysis

• Purpose: Verifies that coatings and printing inks on the paper cup’s exterior are safe and do not contain harmful substances that could migrate into food.

• Method: Analyzes chemical composition using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to identify substances like bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, or azo dyes.

• Requirement: Must comply with LFGB and EU good manufacturing practices (GMP) under Regulation (EC) No 2023/2006. Non-intentionally added substances (NIAS) are evaluated for safety.

Additional Considerations

• Material Composition: Tests the paper cup’s raw materials (e.g., paperboard, polyethylene lining) for compliance with LFGB Section 30 and 31 (prohibited substances).

• Microbial Safety: Ensures the cup does not promote bacterial growth, especially for prolonged use, using tests like ISO 22196.

• Recycled Materials: If recycled paper is used, additional testing for contaminants (e.g., mineral oils, MOSH/MOAH) is required per German BfR recommendations.

How to Conduct LFGB Testing for Paper Cups

1. Consult a Testing Agency
   Contact an accredited laboratory (e.g., Huabiao Testing) to discuss LFGB requirements and obtain a tailored testing plan. Provide product specifications, including material composition and intended use.

2. Submit Samples
   Provide 2–3 paper cup samples, along with details on coatings, inks, and manufacturing processes. Include any recycled material certifications, if applicable.

3. Testing Execution
   The laboratory conducts overall and specific migration tests, sensory evaluations, and composition analysis using advanced equipment (e.g., ICP-MS, GC-MS, HPLC). Tests align with LFGB, EU Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004, and Commission Regulation (EU) No 10/2011.

4. Report Issuance
   Receive a detailed test report confirming compliance with LFGB standards. The report includes migration results, sensory findings, and composition analysis, suitable for submission to regulatory authorities or buyers.

Why Choose Huabiao Testing?

Huabiao Testing offers comprehensive LFGB testing solutions for paper cups with an experienced technical team and advanced equipment. Accredited with CMA/CNAS qualifications, our accurate and reliable testing data and internationally recognized reports help clients manage risks, meet market requirements, and achieve global market success.

ntroduction

The U.S. is the world’s largest market for children’s products, with stringent safety regulations enforced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The Children’s Product Certificate (CPC) is a mandatory requirement for children’s products sold in the U.S. This guide explains CPC certification, which products require flammability testing, and the certifications needed for exporting children’s products to the U.S.

What is CPC Certification?

The CPC (Children’s Product Certificate) is a self-declaration document required by the CPSC for children’s products (intended for ages 12 and under, or 14 for some standards) sold in the U.S. It confirms compliance with safety regulations, including the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) and ASTM F963 (Toy Safety Standard).

Testing Scope:

• Physical/Mechanical: No choking hazards, sharp edges, or small parts.

• Flammability: Resistance to fire hazards.

• Chemical: Limits on lead (≤100 ppm), phthalates (≤0.1%), and heavy metals.

• Electrical: Safety for battery-operated toys.

CPC Requirements:

• Product and importer details.

• Manufacturing date and address.

• Applicable standards (e.g., CPSIA, ASTM F963).

• CPSC-accredited laboratory info, test dates, and location.

The CPC is issued by the manufacturer or importer based on third-party test reports and must accompany shipments.

Which Products Require Flammability Testing?

Flammability testing is required for products with fire-risk materials (per 16 CFR 1610, 1615, 1616, and ASTM F963-17):

• Textile Toys: Plush toys, costumes, or stuffed animals.

• Sleepwear/Bedding: Children’s sleepwear (sizes 0–14) and bedding.

• Other Materials: Toys with paper, foam, or flammable plastics.

Exemptions: Non-flammable materials (e.g., metal, silicone) may not require testing, subject to risk assessment.

Certifications for Exporting Children’s Products to the U.S.

Exporting children’s products to the U.S. requires compliance with the following:

1. CPC Certification

• Verifies compliance with CPSIA, ASTM F963, and other standards.

• Applies to toys, teething products, cribs, and clothing for children ≤12 (or ≤14 for some standards).

• Requires third-party testing for lead, phthalates, and safety hazards.

2. CPSIA Compliance

• Lead: ≤100 ppm in accessible parts (16 CFR 1307).

• Phthalates: ≤0.1% for eight types (16 CFR 1307).

• Tracking Labels: Permanent labels with batch and date info (15 U.S.C. 2063).

3. ASTM F963 Compliance

• Mandatory for toys (≤14 years), covering mechanical, flammability, and chemical safety.

4. Product-Specific Certifications

• Jewelry: Lead (≤100 ppm) and cadmium (≤300 ppm in some states).

• Childcare Articles: Phthalate limits and FDA food contact standards (e.g., pacifiers).

• Textiles/Apparel: Flammability (16 CFR 1610) and tracking labels.

• Battery-Operated Toys: Electrical safety (e.g., UL 62115).

5. Amazon Requirements

• CPC and test reports must be uploaded to Seller Central to comply with Amazon’s Children’s Product Policy.

How to Obtain CPC Certification

1. Consult a Lab: Contact a CPSC-accredited lab (e.g., Huabiao Testing) for guidance.

2. Submit Samples: Provide 2–3 samples and product details.

3. Test: Verify compliance with CPSIA, ASTM F963, and other standards.

4. Draft CPC: Use test reports to create the CPC with all required info.

5. Distribute/Retain: Provide CPC to retailers and retain for 5 years.

Why Choose Huabiao Testing?

Huabiao(GIG) Testing offers comprehensive CPC certification solutions with an experienced team and advanced equipment. Accredited with CMA/CNAS, our accurate and reliable data and internationally recognized reports help clients manage risks, meet market requirements, and succeed globally.

In modern electronics manufacturing, RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) testing is increasingly critical, especially for businesses aiming to enter the EU market. RoHS testing not only ensures environmental compliance but also directly impacts a company’s market competitiveness and brand reputation. Today, Huabiao Testing provides a comprehensive guide on RoHS testing and CE certification, along with an SEO optimization strategy to enhance your online visibility.

What is RoHS Testing?

1.1 Definition of RoHS

RoHS, or Restriction of Hazardous Substances, is an EU environmental regulation (Directive 2002/95/EC) introduced in February 2003. It restricts the use of specific hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) to minimize the environmental and health impacts of electronic waste.

1.2 Substances Restricted by RoHS

Under RoHS 3 (Directive 2015/863, effective from July 22, 2019), the following 10 substances are restricted, with maximum concentration values (by weight) in homogeneous materials:

• Lead (Pb): 0.1%

• Mercury (Hg): 0.1%

• Cadmium (Cd): 0.01%

• Hexavalent Chromium (Cr6+): 0.1%

• Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBB): 0.1%

• Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDE): 0.1%

• Bis(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate (DEHP): 0.1%

• Butyl Benzyl Phthalate (BBP): 0.1%

• Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP): 0.1%

• Diisobutyl Phthalate (DIBP): 0.1%

RoHS compliance requires testing to ensure that these substances do not exceed the specified limits in any homogeneous material within the product.

What is CE Certification?

2.1 Definition of CE Certification

CE certification (Conformité Européenne, European Conformity) is a mandatory conformity mark for products sold in the European Economic Area (EEA). It indicates that a product complies with EU directives related to safety, health, and environmental protection. The CE mark is a “passport” for market entry in the EU.

2.2 Applicable CE Directives

CE certification encompasses multiple directives, depending on the product type. Common directives include:

• Low Voltage Directive (LVD, 2014/35/EU): Ensures the safety of electrical equipment.

• Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (EMC, 2014/30/EU): Ensures devices do not cause or suffer from electromagnetic interference.

• RoHS Directive (2011/65/EU): Restricts hazardous substances in EEE.

• Radio Equipment Directive (RED, 2014/53/EU): Applies to radio equipment.

RoHS 2 (2011/65/EU) integrates RoHS compliance into the CE certification framework, meaning products must meet RoHS requirements to obtain the CE mark.

How to Obtain RoHS Testing and CE Certification

3.1 RoHS Testing Process

1. Application: Submit an application to a testing agency with product details (e.g., material composition, bill of materials). Provide 2–3 product samples.

2. Testing: A laboratory tests homogeneous materials using techniques like X-ray fluorescence (XRF) or inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to measure restricted substance levels.

3. Report Issuance: Receive a test report confirming compliance with RoHS limits. Non-compliant products may require material reformulation and retesting.

4. Documentation: Maintain records of test reports and compliance declarations for regulatory audits.

3.2 CE Certification Process

1. Identify Applicable Directives: Determine which EU directives apply to your product (e.g., LVD, EMC, RoHS).

2. Testing and Assessment: Conduct tests through an accredited laboratory to verify compliance with relevant standards. For RoHS, this is included in the CE framework.

3. Technical Documentation: Compile a technical file with test reports, risk assessments, user manuals, and design specifications.

4. Declaration of Conformity: Issue a signed EU Declaration of Conformity stating compliance with all applicable directives.

5. Affix CE Mark: Apply the CE mark to the product, packaging, or accompanying documents.

6. Retain Records: Keep technical documentation and test reports for 10 years for regulatory inspections.

3.3 Costs and Timeline

• RoHS Testing Costs: Typically $100–$500 per product, depending on material complexity and test scope. Complex products with multiple materials may cost up to $1,000.

• CE Certification Costs: Varies widely ($500–$5,000 or more), depending on the number of directives, product type, and testing requirements.

• Timeline: RoHS testing takes 3–7 business days; CE certification may take 1–3 weeks, depending on the complexity and laboratory schedule.

Why Choose Huabiao Testing?

Huabiao Testing, with its experienced technical team and advanced testing equipment, provides comprehensive RoHS and CE certification solutions. Accredited with CMA/CNAS qualifications, our testing data is accurate and reliable, and our reports carry international credibility. We help clients manage risks, meet market requirements, and ensure their products can be successfully sold globally.