kvalitetsmärke

Kvalitetsmärke, literally “quality mark” in Swedish, refers to a symbol or label attached to a product or service to indicate that it meets predefined quality criteria established by a certifying body or authority. The mark is intended to communicate to consumers that the item has undergone assessment and has achieved a certain level of safety, reliability, performance, durability, or ethical standards. The issuing organization can be a government agency, a national or international standards body, a consumer protection organization, or a private industry group.

Criteria behind a kvalitetsmärke are defined in advance and are verifiable through testing, inspections, or documentation. The requirements may cover technical performance, safety certifications, environmental impact, business practices, or social and ethical considerations. Marks are typically either voluntary, chosen by manufacturers to differentiate their products, or, in some sectors, mandatory within a regulatory framework.

The certification process usually involves an application, assessment by independent evaluators, and, if successful, authorization to use the mark for a specified period. Ongoing compliance is often required, with periodic re-testing or audits to maintain the right to use the mark. Misuse or failure to maintain standards can lead to withdrawal of the mark.

Kvalitetsmärken serve to simplify consumer choice and stimulate quality improvements but can vary in rigor and prestige across sectors and regions. They are one tool among certification schemes, standardization efforts, and labeling regulations intended to promote trust and accountability in markets.