EHEDG and 3A Certifications: What They Are and How They Benefit Your Business

In a globalized and competitive market, companies seek differentiation through superior quality standards. EHEDG and 3A certifications are internationally recognized and ensure equipment meets the highest hygiene and food safety requirements. According to Merca 2.0, certified equipment has a 38% higher chance of closing a sale after initial contact. 

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1. What Are EHEDG and 3A Certifications?

1.1 3A Standards: Global Sanitary Assurance 

Issued by Sanitary Standards Inc. (USA), 3A standards are a benchmark in industrial hygiene. They apply to equipment for: 

• Food industry (dairy, meat, beverages). 

• Pharmaceutical sector. 

• Processes requiring food-grade safety. 

Key features: 

• Food-grade compliant materials. 

• Designs that prevent cross-contamination. 

• Compliance with FDA and USDA regulations. 

1.2 EHEDG Certification: European Hygiene Standard 

The European Hygienic Engineering & Design Group (EHEDG) establishes guidelines for: 

• Equipment, packaging, and processes in the food industry. 

• Compliance with European legislation (EC 1935/2004). 

• Validation through rigorous testing before certification. 

Did you know? EHEDG-certified equipment is listed in Food-Info, a continuously updated database. 

2. Key Benefits of EHEDG and 3A Certifications

2.1 Market Trust and Prestige 

• Attracts demanding clients (multinationals, exporters). 

• Differentiation from non-certified competitors. 

2.2 Access to Major Contracts 

Companies like Nestlé, PepsiCo, and Unilever require suppliers with: 

• Recognized certifications. 

• Traceability and regulatory compliance. 

Example: A pump manufacturer increased sales by 45% after obtaining EHEDG. 

2.3 Promotion and Visibility 

• Listing in official directories (EHEDG and 3A). 

• Inclusion in industry newsletters. 

2.4 Risk Reduction 

• Minimized recalls due to contamination. 

• Automatic compliance with international audits. 

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3. How to Obtain Certifications

3.1 Requirements for 3A Certification

• Sanitary design (no dead zones, easy cleaning). 
• Certified materials (316L stainless steel, FDA elastomers). 
• Performance testing under real conditions. 

3.2 EHEDG Certification Process 

• Design evaluation by EHEDG engineers.
• Cleaning tests (CIP/SIP) and microbial resistance. 
• Final validation and certificate issuance. 

Key fact: Only 12% of market equipment meets both standards. 

4. Comparison: EHEDG vs. 3A

EHEDG and 3A certifications are not just seals—they are commercial tools that: 

• Build customer trust. 

• Open global markets. 

• Reduce operational risks. 

Want your equipment to meet these standards? 
 

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