The BioVidaSana standard was created with the aim of providing small and medium-sized businesses with access to the certified cosmetics market. For this reason, the BioVidaSana standard was developed in 2010, with the participation of various experts in the industry. In addition to the standard, certification criteria were defined, and quality and procedure manuals that companies must comply with to achieve certification for their products were drafted. The standard features various seals corresponding to different product categories: organic, natural, or vegan. Additionally, there is the EcoPlus category for companies where 75% of their cosmetic products are certified organic.
The four pillars of the BioVidaSana project
These are: the Vida Sana Association, the promoter of the standard, which is responsible for promotion; the entity Biocertificación S.L., which handles technical-logistic aspects and product evaluation, as well as inspection of laboratories; and certification, which is carried out by the accredited certifier bio.inspecta AG. The fourth pillar is the consumers, who, through their direct intervention or through social networks, express their questions and opinions to those in charge of the BioVidaSana project.
BioCultura Fair
One of the main platforms of the BioVidaSana cosmetic project is the BioCultura fair organized by the nonprofit association Vida Sana. BioCultura is held annually in Madrid, Barcelona, and two other Spanish cities, and it is the main fair for responsible consumption in Spain. Through the BioVidaSana standard, BioCultura provides a local alternative for small and medium-sized Spanish cosmetic businesses, many of which are artisanal.
The BioCultura Advisory Committee, consisting of technical personnel from certified companies, gathers at BioCultura to discuss aspects of improving the standard and strategies for better consumer attention and information.
Conclusions
The BioVidaSana standard does not pursue profit, and its objectives are focused on sustainability, responsible consumption, rural development, and the protection of consumers and the environment. The BioVidaSana certification is not limited to small businesses; any cosmetics laboratory or brand can apply for BioVidaSana certification by writing to info@cosmeticabiovidasana.org.
Authors: Montse Escutia, Red Ecoestética Project and Núria Alonso, BioVidaSana Certification Responsible
Published in the BIOFACH & VIVANESS 2024 Bio Eco Actual Special Edition.
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