Frequently Asked Questions

Explore our FAQ page to learn more about our services.

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General About SGS Nutrasource

What is SGS Nutrasource? 

SGS Nutrasource is a global contract research and consulting organization (CRO) that provides end-to-end regulatory, clinical research, testing, and certification services to companies across the health, nutrition, and life sciences sectors. Our expertise helps brands scientifically substantiate their products, navigate global regulatory requirements, and build credibility through trusted third-party certification. Learn more. 

How is SGS Nutrasource different from other testing or consulting firms? 

SGS Nutrasource is unique in that we integrate scientific research, clinical trials, regulatory strategy, analytical testing, and third-party certification within a single organization - eliminating the need for multiple vendors. This end-to-end approach helps brands move faster, reduce risk, and build lasting trust with regulators, retailers, and consumers. 

Does SGS Nutrasource support pharmaceutical products? 

Yes. While the Nutrasource name reflects our roots in nutrition science, SGS Nutrasource also provides clinical research, scientific, analytical, and regulatory support for pharmaceutical products and drug development programs. Read more. 

Certifications & Programs

Is third party testing mandatory? 

While third party testing is not a mandated requirement, many retailers, distributors, and commercial partners may require testing as a condition of sale or market access. Additionally, obtaining a product certification has many benefits, such as; a competitive edge in the market, proof behind transparency and purity claims, positive influence on customer purchasing decisions, and is favourable by consumers in many regions worldwide. Learn more about third party testing here. 

What does the IFOS™ certification verify? 

IFOS™ (International Fish Oil Standards) verifies omega-3 products against quality, purity, safety, and freshness parameters. Read more about IFOS™. 

What does the IGEN™ certification verify? 

IGEN™ (International Genetically Modified Organism) verifies non-GMO status through supply-chain traceability, testing, and documentation. Read more about IGEN™. 

What does the NutraStrong™ Prebiotic Verified certification verify? 

NutraStrong™ Prebiotic Verified ensures that products certified utilize high-quality, efficacious prebiotic ingredients. This program is backed by the Global Prebiotic Association. Read more about NutraStrong™. 

What does the NutraStrong™ Collagen Verified certification verify? 

NutraStrong™ Collagen Verified confirms that products utilize science-backed collagen ingredients with transparent sourcing and responsible formulation. This program is supported by the Collagen Stewardship Alliance. Read more about NutraStrong™. 

What does IKOS™ verify? 

The IKOS™ (International Krill Oil Standards) Program is the only third-party testing and certification program exclusively for krill oils. IKOS™ tests products by lot, using direct analysis, for omega-3 and astaxanthin content, contaminants, and freshness. Read more about IKOS™. 

What does IAOS™ verify? 

The IAOS™ (International Algal Oil Standards) tests algal products to the highest quality, safety, and purity standards in the world. They are tested against standards for active ingredient content, contaminants, and stability. Read more about IAOS™. 

What does IPRO™ verify? 

IPRO™ (International Probiotic Standards) is a certification specifically designed for probiotic ingredients and finished products. IPRO™ showcases how probiotics are manufactured, handled, tested, stored, shipped, and labeled. IPRO™ tests for microbes, heavy metal count, disintegration for capsules and total probiotic count. Read more about IPRO™. 

What does RTCP™ verify? 

RTCP (Radioactivity Tested & Certified™ Program) tests products for detectable presence of the principal radionuclides associated with accidents involving nuclear reactors (I-131, Cs-134, Cs-137). The program is designed to address consumer demand for additional safety in products being used or consumed by the public. Read more about RTCP™. 

Testing & Analytical Services

What types of testing does SGS Nutrasource provide? 

Services include identity, purity, potency, contaminants, stability, and label claim verification, depending on the product and market. Learn more. 

Are SGS Nutrasource laboratories accredited? 

Yes. SGS Nutrasource utilizes laboratories operating under internationally recognized accreditation and quality standards for its testing services. 

Can SGS Nutrasource test both raw ingredients and finished products? 

Yes. Testing services are available for raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products. 

Regulatory & Scientific Support

Does SGS Nutrasource help with regulatory compliance? 

Yes. Regulatory services support compliance across multiple markets, including the U.S., Canada, the EU, and other global regions. Learn more. 

Can SGS Nutrasource support clinical or scientific research? 

Yes. We can design, manage, and execute your clinical trial. SGS Nutrasource is capable of conducting and overseeing all phases of clinical trials, from early clinical development/Phase I, Phase II/III, and Phase IV, and take a strategic approach to site selection study placement and management from single-site trials to multi-centre, multi-country trials. Read more.

Can SGS Nutrasource review product labels and claims? 

Yes. Label and claim reviews help align products with applicable regulatory requirements. Explore this service. 

Industries & Markets

Does SGS Nutrasource work with pet nutrition products? 

Yes. SGS Nutrasource supports pet food and pet supplement products with testing, and scientific services. Read more. 

Does SGS Nutrasource support global markets? 

Yes. Through SGS’s global presence, SGS Nutrasource supports products intended for international distribution. 

Process & Timelines

How long does testing or certification take? 

Timelines vary depending on the service, product type, and scope. Estimated timelines are provided during project scoping. 

Can SGS Nutrasource work with small or emerging brands? 

Yes. SGS Nutrasource has scalable offerings used by early-stage companies as well as large multinational organizations. We offer both full-service and standalone options to support all business models. 

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