What LFGB testing covers
LFGB (Lebensmittel-, Bedarfsgegenstände- und Futtermittelgesetzbuch) is Germany's food, consumer goods and feed code. For stainless steel drinkware, an LFGB test report typically documents:
- Material migration — release of metals (e.g. chromium, nickel, manganese) from food-contact surfaces into a food simulant.
- Sensory testing — that the product does not transfer off-taste or odor to the contents.
- Component coverage — body, lid, gasket/seal, and coating materials that touch the beverage.
Because LFGB is stricter and more sensory-focused than some baseline standards, EU retailers and importers often request it specifically for bottles, tumblers, and lids.
LFGB testing in China: how it works
LFGB testing in China means the food-contact tests are run by an accredited laboratory on samples from the China-based manufacturer. At Sonin, LFGB testing is arranged on representative material and component samples, and the resulting report is tied to the specific material construction (for example 304 stainless inner wall and the lid/seal materials).
Key point for buyers: an LFGB report is a documentation discipline, not a one-time sticker. Match the report to the exact SKU material and component set you are ordering.
How to read an LFGB report
- Applicant & manufacturer — confirm it names the factory, not only a trading company.
- Tested item & material — verify the material grade and components match your SKU.
- Test standard & date — check the methods referenced and that the report is current.
- Result — pass/limits for migration and sensory parameters.
See also our procurement guide: How to verify LFGB and FDA compliance for stainless steel drinkware.
Frequently asked questions
What does LFGB mean for stainless drinkware?
LFGB is Germany's food and consumer-goods code. In drinkware sourcing it means a food-contact lab report covering metal migration, sensory testing, and lid/seal parts.
What is an LFGB food-contact test?
An LFGB test is accredited lab testing on material and component samples. Testing on China-made samples is common; the report should still match the exact SKU construction.
What does an LFGB certificate mean for stainless drinkware?
Buyers usually mean the food-contact test documentation under Germany's LFGB framework — typically a lab report covering metal migration, sensory testing, and lid/seal components for bottles and tumblers.
Can I get LFGB documentation from a China OEM factory?
Yes. Accredited labs test China-made samples. Sonin arranges testing on representative materials and components and shares model-matched reports during buyer onboarding.
Do you provide LFGB certificates for stainless steel bottles made in China?
Yes. LFGB food-contact test reports are available to qualified buyers during vendor onboarding, matched to the specific SKU material and lid/seal construction. See also our LFGB OEM checklist.
Is LFGB the same as FDA?
No. LFGB is the German/EU food-contact framework and is often more sensory-focused; FDA is the US food-contact standard. Many buyers request both. We can supply LFGB and FDA reports on request.
How long does LFGB testing take?
For catalog material constructions, existing reports can usually be shared quickly. New or custom material/coating combinations require fresh lab testing, which typically takes a few weeks.