Transparency Project Certification
How does it work?
Clean Label Project purchases products at retail, tests, and benchmarks the product test results. If the product is enrolled in the Clean Label Project Transparency Project, Clean Label Project works with the brand on a mutually agreeable tracking system. The product’s unique identification number (such as a lot number) and test results are uploaded to the Clean Label Transparency Project website. Consumers can access the tracking number on the Clean Label Project website to see the details of the testing and the test results.
Step 1Contact with Clean Label Project
Reach out to Clean Label Project to get a non-disclosure agreement and application materials. We’ll schedule a call to discuss your brand, product portfolio, and identification/tracking system ideas.
Step 2Sampling
After the product scope is identified, Clean Label Project will use it’s Consumer Chain of Custody Sampling Process. Clean Label Project simulates the consumer shopping experience, by purchasing samples from local co-ops, national retailers, and brand websites. This independent approach to sampling is meant to mirror the consumer shopping experience and evaluate the true contents of what’s in refrigerators, drawers, and pantries across America.
Step 3Testing
After the products are purchased at retail, Clean Label Project submits the samples to one of it’s ISO-accredited analytical chemistry partner laboratories. The scope of testing for Clean Label Project: Purity Award Code of Practices varies depending on the product type. The testing process can take up to 3 weeks.
Step 4Benchmarking
Upon completion of the testing, benchmarking is next. The test results for your product are compared to the test results of product category. If your product test results are in the top 33% of the category, in addition to other supporting compliance requirements, you qualify for the Clean Label Project Purity Award and your test results qualify to be used on the Clean Label Transparency Project website.
Step 5Ongoing Compliance
Clean Label Project will work with you on the marketing of your award to both consumers and retailers. However, keep in mind, a single test point is not enough to demonstrate ongoing superiority. Many brands elect to test and post each product lot to ensure consistency in product packaging. The expectation is that you maintain the same ingredient quality assurance requirements to maintain these high standards.