Why an Allergy Seal of Quality?
In Switzerland, more than three million people suffer from allergies and intolerances. For them, it is of central importance to know exactly which ingredients a product contains and whether it is suitable for them – often this information is even a matter of survival.
Clear and reliable information
"What can I consume? Is the information on the packaging complete and correct?" The desire for verified safety and detailed additional information is becoming ever more apparent.
Guidance for those affected
People with allergies and intolerances would like a standardised and independent guide to safe products. At the same time, producers need a way to label and present their products accordingly.
The Allergy Seal of Quality is established
The idea of the Allergy Seal of Quality was born out of this need, and the independent certification body Service Allergie Suisse was founded. Products that have been awarded the Seal of Quality offer those affected real added value: they provide greater safety, additional information, and make everyday life considerably easier.
Food safety: an example
Food allergies are thought to affect around 350,000 people directly, including a disproportionate number of children and adolescents.
If one takes into account the closer social environment of these people, such as family, acquaintances, daycare centres and schools, the number increases significantly: at a conservative estimate, over one million people are forced to grapple with the topic of food allergies in their everyday lives. Furthermore, there is a group of people of at least equal size who believe they have a food allergy. And there are many who, out of caution – for example, in the interests of their children or as a preventive measure for themselves – deliberately refrain from products that contain allergens. Overall, the topic of food allergies affects an estimated 3 million people in Switzerland who are actively interested in safe products.
Frequently asked questions
The telephone advice line of aha! Swiss Allergy Centre recorded around 275 enquiries specifically on the subject of food allergies in 2006/2007 alone. Questions about nuts, celery, peanuts, soya, milk and eggs were clearly in the foreground.
Comparison with other forms of allergy and intolerance
Similar patterns can also be observed for other allergies and intolerances, which underlines the importance of clear and reliable product information.
Where to find the Allergy Seal of Quality?
The Allergy Seal of Quality identifies products and services that are particularly suitable for people with allergies and intolerances. It provides reliable guidance and assures safety.
Safety through independent verification
All products and their manufacturing processes are inspected and certified on site by independent bodies. In addition, experts such as doctors and scientists check the suitability of the products for people with allergies and whether the relevant information is correct.
Wide range of applications
The Allergy Seal of Quality can be found on a wide range of products, including
- Food
- Cosmetics
- Encasings
- Cleaning agents and detergents
- Nappies and hygiene products
- Household appliances, air filters etc.
Product database for an easy search
To find products with the Allergy Seal of Quality, you can use the product database to search for specific items. You will also find information on where to buy these products.
A Rapid Development: A Look Back at History
The range of safe products for people with allergies and intolerances is constantly growing. It all started with a cosmetic line developed especially for those affected. Shortly afterwards, Migros followed suit by introducing an extensive range for allergy sufferers, which, still today, is tested by Service Allergie Suisse and awarded the Allergy Seal of Quality.
At the same time, the first Dyson products, various other cosmetics, and special encasings with the Allergy Seal of Quality came onto the market. In 2011, there were already 150 products that carried the Allergy Seal of Quality.
Since 2016, Coop has also had its products certified by Service Allergie Suisse. The Allergy Seal of Quality has established itself as a reliable quality and safety feature. To date, over 1,600 products have successfully passed Service Allergie Suisse certification process – and the trend is on the rise.
Global Audit Expertise through Strong Collaboration
We have been working closely with renowned international auditing organisations since 2008. This partnership gives us the opportunity to work with independent and experienced auditors worldwide. This is how we ensure the highest quality standards and efficient performance of audits in different countries.
Audits 2024
Belgium (8) | The Netherlands (4) |
Denmark (6) | Austria (3) |
Germany (54) | Poland (6) |
France (26) | Switzerland (617) |
Italy (24) | Singapore (4) |
Canada (6) | Spain (2) |
Liechtenstein (31) | Hungary (1) |