Quality label ‘DLG-certified quality

The single-tier "DLG – tested quality" award simplifies communication, strengthens the significance of the seal, and is based on international standards. The new classification further consolidates the high quality standards of the DLG tests.

The transition to the new "DLG – tested quality" single-tier label will take place starting with the first tests in 2026.

The new "DLG – tested quality" single-tier label simplifies communication with a uniform, strong seal. It reduces the number of print templates and packaging variants, thereby cutting costs and streamlining processes, strengthening marketing impact and saving materials. Plus, the clean design makes it easy to integrate into online shops and POS systems.

Two variants of the seal are available:

• "DLG – tested quality" (replaces the previous version with the year)
  To obtain this label, products must be tested at least every two years.
   
• "DLG – tested annually" (remains unchanged)
  Products that receive this label must be tested every year.

The "DLG – tested quality" label may be used as long as the product successfully passes the DLG quality test at least every two years. Use is contingent upon achieving the specified quality targets. If a product is not re-tested or fails the test, the right of use will be cancelled. Products bearing the "DLG – tested annually" label must be tested annually by the DLG. Use is contingent upon achieving the specified quality targets. If a product is not re-tested or fails the test, the right of use will be cancelled.

The "DLG – tested quality" label is awarded on the basis of adapted quality figures:

• Solid foods, coffee and coffee drinks, tea and tea-like drinks, as well as cappuccino with a quality score of 4.6 or higher
• Beverage products with a quality score of 4.3 or higher

As in previous years, the evaluation will be carried out by sensory experts according to the established product-specific DLG 5-point test programme®. All tested products receive a detailed test report with a quality rating, which provides transparent feedback on product quality.

Yes, a transition period is planned for the changeover of packaging, labels and advertising materials so that companies can gradually adapt their materials to the new label. The specific deadlines are set down in the current examination regulations and those from 2026

Products that have been successfully tested and awarded under the previous system in 2025 may continue to advertise with the corresponding medal (gold, silver, bronze) until the end of their two-year period of use, even if the new label has already been introduced. Existing rights remain unchanged; there is no obligation to change over early. After this period, participation in testing under the new system is required in order to receive further certification.

Special awards such as the German Federal Award of Honour and the Award for Long-Term Product Quality will remain unchanged in the single-tier award system. They continue to be based on the familiar criteria and require successful participation in the the tests.

All files (vector graphics, colour specifications, usage guidelines, style guide) will be provided centrally by the DLG Marketing Department and will be available as usual from the beginning of 2026.

According to the EmpCo Regulation 2024/2025, with amendment to the UGP Directive 2005/29, only so-called “sustainability seals” fall under the new provisions. The directive defines these as voluntary labels that highlight the ecological or social characteristics of a product or process. The "DLG – tested Quality" seal of approval is expressly not a sustainability label within the meaning of the EmpCo Regulation and therefore does not fall within its scope. Details