EHEDG consists of research centers, equipment manufacturers, food processors, and universities whose main objective is to improve hygienic engineering and design in all aspects of food manufacuturing.

As such, members of the Test Methods Sub-group certify that equipment meets the essential health and safety requirements for agri-foodstuffs machinery as stated in Machinery Directive 98/37/EC passed by the European Union Council in 1998.

All equipment that is sold or put into use in the European Union (EU) must meet the requirements of the appropriate directives approved by the Council. Equipment certification requires a review of the equipment design features and/or passing of a standard test for in-place cleanability.

As a member of EHEDG and the Test Methods Sub-group, the CIFM has obtained the necessary pilot plant equipment and training to allow Purdue to become the only EHEDG certification organization in the U.S.

U.S. Food Equipment Manufacturers now have the option to have their equipment tested at Purdue's facility. If the equipment successfully passes the testing, it will obtain "EL approval", demonstrating that it meets the cleanability criteria required for sale and use in the EU.

If you have any questions regarding this initiative or are interested in having your equipment tested, please contact Dr. Mark T. Morgan at (765) 474-1180 or via email at mmorgan@purdue.edu