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What Is NSF Certification?

Millions of people take the safety of their food, water and consumer products for granted on a daily basis. Why? Because of three letters: NSF. NSF certification is your key to making sure that the products you use meet strict standards for public health protection.

Choosing a product certified by NSF lets you know the company complies with strict standards and procedures imposed by NSF. From extensive product testing and material analyses to unannounced plant inspections, every aspect of a product's development is thoroughly evaluated before it can earn our certification.

Most importantly, NSF certification is not a one-time event, but involves regular on-site inspections of manufacturing facilities and regular re-testing of products to ensure that they continue to meet the same high standards required to maintain certification over time. If for any reason a product fails to meet one or more certification criteria, NSF will take enforcement actions to protect you, including product recall, public notification or de-certification.

Products that earn NSF certification are said to be “NSF certified” or “NSF listed” and display the applicable NSF certification mark to show that they have been tested by one of today’s most respected independent product testing organizations.

How NSF Can Help You

Get in touch to find out how we can help you and your business thrive.

What’s New with NSF

  • NSF Welcomes Hanjun Kwon, Managing Director, APAC

    September 14, 2026
    Experienced business leader to drive sustainable growth, organizational development and operational excellence across the Asia-Pacific region.
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  • A mother and her son standing in the kitchen as she prepares food for lunch. He is eating a strawberry while he watches. Mom is Caucasian, in her 30s and the boy is mixed race Black and Caucasian, 3 years old. The focus is on the woman.

    NSF to Exhibit and Present at PACK EXPO International

    September 11, 2026
    NSF is proud to be part of PACK EXPO International 2026, the premier event bringing together packaging and processing leaders from across industries.
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  • Information Systems Security Association (ISSA) Welcomes NSF’s Brian Schultz into the 2026 Hall of Fame

    September 10, 2026
    Lifetime achievement recognition honors exceptional leadership and lasting contributions to the cybersecurity profession.
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  • NSF Welcomes Nicole Parent Haughey to Board of Directors

    September 10, 2026
    NSF's appointment of Nicole supports the organization's continued focus on long-term growth and transformation.
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