Frequently asked questions.
Everything you need to know about AVA Certification - standards, timelines, costs, renewals, and confidentiality. Still have a question? Reach the AVA team directly via the Contact page.
About AVA certification
AVA certifies food and consumer products against five clear standards: Vegetarian, Vegan, Plant-Based, Animal-Free, and Recommended. Each certification has its own ingredient and processing requirements. Brands choose the seal that best matches their formulation and consumer story, and AVA reviews the product against the public, documented criteria for that seal.
AVA Certification review takes 5 to 7 business days after we receive payment, ingredient list, product label, and sample. The certification is valid for one year and is renewable, pending no formula or ingredient changes that would require a fresh review against the standard.
Frequently asked questions
What does AVA certify?
AVA certifies food and consumer products against five clear standards: Vegetarian, Vegan, Plant-Based, Animal-Free, and Recommended. Each certification has its own ingredient and processing requirements.
How long does certification take?
AVA Certification review takes 5-7 business days after we receive your payment, ingredient list, product label, and sample. We reach out promptly if we need any additional information.
What is the difference between Vegan and Animal-Free?
Vegan products contain no animal-sourced ingredients and no animal-derived genes. Animal-Free products contain no animal-sourced ingredients and use no animal in production, but ingredients may be derived from animal genes (for example, via precision fermentation).
What does Plant-Based mean under the AVA standard?
AVA Certified Plant-Based products are made of a majority of plant-based ingredients (80% or more by weight, including water), with up to 20% acceptable non-plant ingredients, and are free of animal-sourced ingredients and processing.
Can a Vegetarian-certified product contain dairy or eggs?
Yes. AVA Vegetarian Certification permits ingredients from animals that are neither killed nor harmed - including milk, eggs, honey, and wool.
How long is the certification valid?
AVA Certification is valid for one year. We will reach out with the option to renew, pending no formula or ingredient changes.
What if I change my product's formula?
Notify AVA of any formula or ingredient changes. We will re-review the product to confirm it still meets the certified standard before the AVA Logo continues to appear on packaging.
How much does certification cost?
Cost depends on your product line and the certifications you are pursuing. Submit an application and an AVA representative will confirm the cost of your AVA Certification contract.
Can I use the AVA Logo before approval?
No. The AVA Logo and AVA Certification Logo may only be used on a product after Certification approval. Continued use without renewal payment is considered unauthorized trademark use.
Is my product information kept confidential?
Yes. AVA treats all non-public product information - including ingredients, formulas, and supplier information - as confidential.