Certification for Qualifying Product Ranges
The Certified Artisanal standard provides an independently verified credential for product ranges that meet defined criteria. Certification is evidence-based and selective. Only qualifying product ranges may carry the mark.
What This Page Establishes
- Explains how producers apply for and maintain Certified Artisanal status.
- Sets expectations for documentation and evidence requirements.
- Describes what certification provides and its operational limitations.
- Clarifies that certification is assessed per product range, not per company.
Why Producers Apply
Independent Verification
The certification provides third-party, evidence-based verification of production standards. It replaces self-declared claims with an independently assessed credential.
Retail and Buyer Recognition
Retailers and specialty buyers increasingly require verified claims. Certified Artisanal status provides an auditable basis for procurement qualification.
Market Differentiation
In a market where "artisanal" is applied without restriction, certification distinguishes documented practice from unverified marketing language.
Public Registry Listing
Certified product ranges are listed in the Foundation's public registry. Any party -- retailers, consumers, competitors -- can verify the claim independently.
Eligibility and Fit
Certification is assessed at the product-range level. Applicants should consider applying if their production meets the following profile:
Not every applicant will qualify. The standard is designed to be selective. The assessment is rigorous and evidence-based.
Certification Criteria
The Certified Artisanal framework evaluates product ranges across three independent standards categories. Certification may be granted based on conformity with one, two, or all three applicable standards.
Each category is assessed independently based on the product range, production method, and available evidence.
Small Batch
Batch structure, traceability, records, and artisanal-scale production volumes.
Contemporaneous records required
Heritage Method
Production rooted in a documented or established tradition with identifiable provenance.
Nominal or aesthetic references to heritage are insufficient.
Crafted
Material human intervention at one or more critical production stages.
Certification Review
One, two, or all three standards may apply.
Certification is assessed against the standards relevant to the product range, category, and production method.
Small Batch
Batch structure, traceability, records, and artisanal-scale production volumes.
Contemporaneous records required
Heritage Method
Production rooted in a documented or established tradition with identifiable provenance.
Nominal or aesthetic references to heritage are insufficient.
Crafted
Material human intervention at one or more critical production stages.
Certification Review
One, two, or all three standards may apply.
Certification is assessed against the standards relevant to the product range, category, and production method.