DCM becomes first Belgian producer with European D1 certification for organic fertilisers

De Ceuster Meststoffen NV (DCM) is the first Belgian company to obtain Module D1 certification for its solid organic fertilisers, liquid organo-mineral fertilisers and organic soil improvers under the new European fertiliser legislation. This achievement reinforces DCM's position as a pioneer in sustainable quality and proactive practices. This certification also applies to its solid organo-mineral fertilisers.

New European fertiliser regulations
Since 2022, a revised fertiliser legislation has been in force in Europe: the Fertilising Products Regulation (FPR). This regulation establishes a single European framework for assessing not only mineral fertilisers but also organic and organo-mineral fertilisers. Producers who comply with these requirements can market their products across all EU Member States with a CE marking, without additional administrative procedures.

© DCM

In a market where many producers are still postponing the transition to this regulation due to stringent requirements regarding product documentation, labelling and quality control, DCM has deliberately chosen a proactive and structured approach.

Control of the entire production process
DCM opted for Module D1 certification under this regulation, whereby not only individual products but also the entire production process and the company's quality management system are assessed. This means that DCM must systematically demonstrate that its fertilising products comply with European requirements in a consistent and controlled manner. The audit was carried out by a "Notified Body", a recognised European certification body, at the production site in Grobbendonk.

© DCMDCM's production site

The outcome was exceptional: no deficiencies were identified. DCM is therefore the first Belgian company to achieve this certification, with a focus on organic and organo-mineral fertilisers as well as organic soil improvers.

Strong foundation for further European growth
"This certification is an important recognition of the way we have been working for years," says Tom De Ceuster, CEO of GroupDC. "We consciously invest in quality, transparency and reliable processes. Being the first Belgian producer to achieve this level for solid organic fertilisers, liquid organo-mineral fertilisers and organic soil improvers, and now extending this to solid organo-mineral fertilisers, confirms that we are fully prepared for the European future."