What You Need to Know About Product Traceability and the GPSR.

Did you know that as a consumer, under the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) (in Dutch: Algemene Productveiligheidsverordening), you have the right to demand the traceability of a product? Traceability is a crucial element of product safety and is explicitly mentioned in the GPSR as a requirement for suppliers and distributors.

What Does Traceability Under the GPSR Involve?

The GPSR holds manufacturers, importers, and distributors accountable for ensuring that products are safe and that consumers are protected. A key aspect of this accountability is traceability, which includes:

Product Identification
Every product must have a type, batch, or serial number, or another means of identification. This enables the product to be tracked in case of issues.

Manufacturer Information
The name, address, and contact details of the manufacturer (and sometimes the importer) must be displayed on the product or its packaging.

Documentation
Suppliers are required to maintain documentation that ensures the product can be traced throughout the supply chain.

What Can You Request as a Consumer?

As a consumer, you are entitled to request critical information about a product. This includes:

Origin Information
Where was the product manufactured, and who supplied it? The official retailers of Xerjoff and Casamorati will always list AAFKES BV as the supplier. AAFKES BV is the exclusive distributor for Xerjoff and Casamorati in the Benelux and works closely with Xerjoff in Italy.

If an (online) seller claims to be an official retailer, or if you are unsure whether an (online) seller selling Xerjoff or Casamorati is authorized, visit xerjoff.nl/en-gb/retailers to check.

Safety Documentation
Proof that the product complies with the applicable safety standards.

Contact Information
The name and contact details of the manufacturer or importer for inquiries or complaints.

Proof of Compliance
Certificates or markings, such as a CE mark, that demonstrate the product meets European regulations.

What to Do If Traceability Is Missing

If a supplier fails to meet traceability requirements, you can take the following steps:

File a Complaint
Submit a formal complaint to the supplier and request the required information.

Contact Regulatory Authorities
Reach out to an organization such as the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA), which monitors product safety.

Seek Help from Consumer Organizations
If you encounter difficulties, consumer organizations can offer guidance and support.

Consider Legal Action
If there is a safety risk or evidence of misleading practices, you may consider taking legal action.

Why Is Traceability Important?

Traceability is a cornerstone of consumer protection and product safety. It allows consumers to make safer choices and ensures that issues with products can be resolved quickly and effectively.

As a consumer, you not only have the right to this information but by exercising it, you can contribute to a safer and more transparent marketplace. Don’t hesitate to make use of your rights!