The increased detection of coeliac disease, as well as the need to standardise the seal for food products that are suitable for people with coeliac disease on an international level, have paved the way for AEOECS (Association of European Coeliac Societies) to develop a self-monitoring protocol alongside its Spanish partner FACE. The protocol is used by producers and packagers of food products to guarantee that their products are suitable for people with coeliac disease.
The ELS Crossed Grain is an internationally-recognised symbol used to identify gluten-free foods. The ELS protocol guarantees foods with less than 20 ppm of gluten.
AENOR carries out regular checks, including audits, inspections and tests, to verify that the producer's self-control system minimises the risks related to gluten contamination in their products.
The Implementation requirements are in line with of other internationally-recognised food safety schemes.
This certification applies to all manufacturers of food products that are specifically made for people with celiac disease, or manufacturers of ordinary or conventional food products that, without being specifically for those with celiac disease, can be consumed by them, guaranteeing the absence of gluten contamination in the food product.
The Espiga Barrada ELS certificate allows audits integrated with F.A.C.E., ISO 9001, ISO 22000, BRCGS, IFS, FSSC.
Companies certified by AENOR obtain the licence for use of the ELS crossed Grain Mark as well as dissemination of their products via media partners, lists of gluten-free foods, mobile identification app, etc.
ELS Crossed Grain
Currently, AENOR is certified to perform ELS crossed Grain audits.