Adding the NSF Logo to Antimicrobial Product Labels

NSF International is an independent certification service that supports standards compliance and provides custom testing and methods development. Antimicrobial pesticide registrants may submit products to NSF for testing and certification.

Upon receipt of certification from NSF, a registrant may submit a request to add the logo via the Agency’s notification process as described in PR Notice 98-10. Confirmation of the NSF certification, a copy of the proposed labeling including the logo and any associated language changes must be submitted with the notification. See PR Notice 98-10.

EPA sent the following letter in response to an inquiry about using the logo:

Mr. Kenji Yano
NSF International
Nonfood Compounds Registration Program
789 N. Dixboro Road
Ann Arbor, MI 48105

Re: Use of NSF logo

Dear Mr. Yano:
This is in response to your letter of June 17, 2004 which provides a revised NSF logo to satisfy concerns raised in a May 13, 2004 conference call between representatives of NSF and the Agency.

The following is a summary of agreements reached during the conference call:

  • Use of the NSF mark with a check mark is permitted
  • A NSF 6-digit listing number is permitted
  • Use of the phrase “NSF listed” is permitted whereas use of “NSF registered” is unacceptable
  • Use of the NSF logo on the side/back panels is permitted

The Agency continues to have concern about the placement of the NSF mark on the front panel of a pesticide label. Logos and associated language should not be placed in a position on the label which might negate or detract from required labeling statements. The Agency would prefer the logo to be placed on the back or side panel of the label to avoid any confusion. The Agency approves logos on a case-by-case basis. At a minimum the logo must be submitted through the Agency’s notification process as described in PR Notice 98-10. Before coming in with a notification, the company desiring to use this logo should contact their product manager for further guidance. A copy of the proposed modification of the label bearing the actual logo and any associated language must be submitted with the notification.

If you have additional questions please do not hesitate to contact the Antimicrobials Division (opp_AD_ombudsman@epa.gov).

Sincerely,

Frank T. Sanders, Director
Antimicrobials Division