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What Is Third-Party Certification?

Third-party certification means that an independent organization has reviewed the manufacturing process of a product and has independently determined that the final product complies with specific standards for safety, quality or performance.

This review typically includes comprehensive formulation/material reviews, testing and facility inspections. Most certified products bear the certifier’s mark on their packaging to help consumers and other buyers make educated purchasing decisions. Ours is the NSF mark.

NSF Certification

Recognized by regulatory agencies at the local, state, federal and international levels, NSF certification demonstrates that a product or service complies with all standard requirements. NSF conducts periodic facility audits and product testing to verify that the product continues to comply with the standard.

NSF tests and certifies a wide variety of products including food, drinking water treatment products and water filters, commercial foodservice equipment, bottled water and nutritional supplements.

Why Do Companies Seek NSF Certification?

Our 75 years of experience providing independent, third-party testing and certification helps organizations:

  • Demonstrate compliance with national or international standards and regulations
  • Demonstrate independent validation and verification of their commitment to safety and quality
  • Increase credibility and acceptance with retailers, consumers and regulators

The NSF Mark

The NSF mark is your assurance that a product has been tested by a trusted independent certification organization.

NSF Product Listings

Search for companies whose products and systems have been certified by NSF.

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 Launches Independent Certification Standard for Compact Products

    August 25, 2026
    New third-party certification verifies products cutting materials and shipping impacts while maintaining safety and performance.
    Read the Story
  • CELSIUS® Products Earn NSF Certified for Sport® Certification

    August 20, 2026
    CELSIUS® has earned NSF Certified for Sport® certification for select products, including the CELSIUS VIBES line, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to quality, transparency and consumer trust.
    Read the Story
  • Thomas Vyles Honored With 2026 Walter F. Snyder Environmental Health Award

    August 19, 2026
    The award honors Walter F. Snyder, co-founder and first executive director of NSF, and pioneers whose work advances environmental and public health.
    Read the Story
  • NSF Hosts First External Review Panel for ‘NSF/KWTC 555’ with Key Asian Water Authorities

    August 3, 2026
    Joint standard development gains momentum to enhance confidence in Asia’s water industry and advance drinking water safety.
    Read the Story