Compliance and Enforcement
The Certified Artisanal mark is a controlled certification mark. Its integrity depends on ongoing verification, consistent enforcement, and public accountability. The Foundation maintains enforcement mechanisms to protect the standard and the market it serves.
What This Page Establishes
- Describes how the Certified Artisanal mark is monitored and protected.
- Explains the consequences of unauthorized or improper mark usage.
- Outlines the investigation and revocation process.
- Provides the basis for reporting suspected misuse.
Audit and Verification
Periodic Audits
Certified producers are subject to scheduled compliance audits during the certification period. Audits verify continued adherence to the certified pillars of the standard.
Random Verification
The Foundation conducts unscheduled spot checks and random verification reviews. Certified producers agree to cooperate with random audits as a condition of certification.
Documentation Requests
The Foundation may request updated documentation at any time during the certification period. Certified producers must provide requested records within 30 business days.
Third-Party Reports
The Foundation accepts and investigates reports of potential non-compliance or mark misuse from any party, including retailers, consumers, and industry participants.
Grounds for Revocation
Certification may be revoked under any of the following circumstances:
Non-compliance with one or more pillars of the Certified Artisanal standard, as determined by audit or review.
Failure to disclose material changes to production methods, facilities, personnel, or batch structure within 30 days of occurrence.
Failure to provide requested documentation within the specified timeframe during a compliance review.
Application of the Certified Artisanal mark to non-certified product ranges or marketing materials beyond the scope of certification.
Misrepresentation of certification status, scope, or the nature of the standard.
Refusal to cooperate with scheduled or random audit procedures.
Submission of false, misleading, or fabricated documentation during the application or review process.
Revocation Process
When non-compliance or misuse is identified, the Foundation issues a formal notice to the certified producer specifying the grounds for potential revocation. The producer is given 30 business days to respond with evidence of remediation.
If the response is insufficient or no response is received, a revocation decision is issued. Revocation takes effect immediately upon issuance.
Upon revocation, the producer must cease all use of the Certified Artisanal mark within 14 days. The certification status in the public registry is updated to “Suspended” immediately. Revocation is a matter of public record.
Registry Status Definitions
Active
Certification is current and the product range is in compliance with the certified pillars of the standard.
Suspended
Certification has been suspended pending resolution of compliance findings. Use of the mark is prohibited during suspension and subject to enforcement action.
Expired
The certification period has ended and renewal has not been completed. Use of the mark is no longer authorized.
Archived
The certification is no longer active. The registry entry is retained for historical reference and auditability. The mark may not be used.