GPSR
Did you know that, as a consumer, you have the right to request product traceability under the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR)? Traceability is a fundamental element of product safety and is explicitly defined in the GPSR as an obligation for manufacturers, importers and distributors.
What Does Traceability Mean under the GPSR?
The GPSR places responsibility on manufacturers, importers and distributors to ensure that products placed on the market are safe and that consumers are adequately protected. A key component of this responsibility is traceability, which includes the following elements:
- Product identification
Each product must be identifiable by a type number, batch number, serial number or another suitable means of identification. This enables the product to be traced in the event of a safety issue.
- Manufacturer information
The name, address and contact details of the manufacturer, and, where applicable, the importer, must be stated on the product or its packaging.
- Documentation
Suppliers are required to maintain documentation that allows the product to be traced throughout the supply chain.
What Can You Request as a Consumer?
As a consumer, you are entitled to request key information about a product. This may include:
- Origin information
Where was the product manufactured and who supplied it? Official retail partners will always refer to AAFKES BV as the supplier. AAFKES BV is the exclusive distributor of Casamorati, Rosendo Mateu and Xerjoff for the Benelux region.
- Safety documentation
Evidence demonstrating that the product complies with applicable safety standards.
- Contact details
The name and contact information of the manufacturer or importer for questions or complaints.
- Proof of conformity
Such as CE marking or other certificates confirming compliance with European regulations.
What to Do If Traceability Is Lacking
If a supplier does not meet the required traceability obligations, there are several steps you can take as a consumer:
- Submit a complaint
Contact the seller from whom you purchased the product and request the necessary traceability information.
- Contact supervisory authorities
You may reach out to a relevant authority, such as the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA), which is responsible for overseeing product safety.
- Seek support from consumer organisations
Consumer organisations can provide guidance and assistance if you encounter difficulties.
- Consider legal action
If there is evidence of a safety risk or misleading practices, you may consider seeking legal advice or taking legal action.
Why Traceability Matters
Traceability is a cornerstone of consumer protection and product safety. It enables consumers to make informed and safer purchasing decisions and allows potential product issues to be identified and addressed efficiently.
As a consumer, you not only have the right to this information, but exercising that right also contributes to a safer and more transparent market. Do not hesitate to make use of it.
Unsure Whether a Retailer Is Officially Authorised?
If an (online) retailer claims to be an official retail partner, or if you are unsure whether a retailer is authorised, we recommend verifying this via:
www.aafkes.nl/retailers
This page provides a complete and up-to-date overview of all officially authorised retail partners.