FAQ

🌿 BotanicalQ Certification – Frequently Asked Questions

What is BotanicalQ certification?
BotanicalQ is a global certification that verifies the credibility, integrity, and product quality of botanical suppliers, manufacturers, and brands using plant-based ingredients.
Who can apply for BotanicalQ certification?
Any business involved in growing, processing, manufacturing, or selling botanical products — including raw herb exporters, extract manufacturers, and consumer-facing brands.
What are the differences between Label 1, Label 2, and Label 3?
Label 1 is for verified businesses of any age. Label 2 is for businesses with 5+ years of operation, and Label 3 is for those with 10+ years and broader product depth.
Is BotanicalQ recognized globally?
Yes, BotanicalQ is designed for international recognition, with credibility in ingredient transparency and quality assurance across major markets.
Which countries are currently supported?
In Phase 1, we focus on businesses in India, China, Vietnam, and Indonesia, with global expansion underway.

How do I apply for certification?
You can apply online through our onboarding form. Based on your business type and label level, you’ll be guided through the required documentation.
What documents do I need to submit?
Depending on your business type, we require business registration, product lists, COAs, product labels, or formulation details.
How long does the review process take?
Basic reviews (Label 1) typically take 2–3 business days. Label 2 or 3 may take up to 5–7 business days depending on the product scope.
Can I apply for more than one label?
Yes. You can upgrade from Label 1 to 2 or 3 as your business matures, or if you already qualify, apply directly for a higher level.
Can I certify multiple products?
Yes, Label 2 and Label 3 allow you to certify multiple products or categories. Additional fees may apply depending on volume.

What does the certification badge look like?
It’s a digital seal with your Label level (e.g., Label 1, Label 2) and your company’s unique verification ID. A QR link connects it to your live verification page.
Where can I use my badge?
On product labels, websites, catalogs, email signatures, and even packaging — wherever you want to build trust.
Can buyers verify our certification?
Yes, each badge comes with a QR-linked verification page showing your certified status, certified products, and business info.
Can I get a printed certificate?
Yes, physical certificates are available as an optional add-on, professionally printed and shipped to your address.

How much does certification cost?
Label 1: $199/year
Label 2: $699/year
Label 3: $999/year
Optional add-ons (e.g., printed certificates, featured listings) are billed separately.
Is it a one-time fee or annual?
Certification is valid for 12 months. Renewal reminders are sent 30 days before expiry.
Are there discounts for bulk or multi-product certification?
Yes. We offer bundle pricing for businesses certifying multiple products or divisions under one entity.

I’m a manufacturer using herbs — can I apply?
Absolutely. Manufacturers who use verified botanical inputs in formulations can apply under any label based on their years of operation.
I’m a brand that sells herbal products, but I don’t grow or manufacture — am I eligible?
Yes. We validate your product labels, ingredient sources, and documentation trail to certify your brand’s integrity.
Do you certify retailers or marketplaces?
Not yet. Our certification is currently designed for original suppliers, manufacturers, and brand owners. Retailers may list certified brands/products only.

Do you certify specific ingredients or the company as a whole?
Label 1 certifies the company. Label 2 and 3 include certification of individual products or product categories (e.g., turmeric oil, shatavari powder).
Can I use the badge only for some products and not others?
Yes. The badge should be used only for certified products. Each product receives a unique listing if part of Label 2 or 3.
Do I need GMP or ISO to apply?
No. BotanicalQ is independent of GMP/ISO but complements those certifications. GMP may strengthen your case for Label 2 or 3.
How do I prove my product doesn't contain synthetic additives?
For extracts or oils, we typically require a COA, MSDS, or self-declared ingredient sheet, plus extraction method disclosure.

Will certification help me get more international clients?
Yes. Buyers increasingly demand supplier transparency, clean-label inputs, and traceability. The BotanicalQ badge supports all three.
Can I list this on Alibaba, Amazon, or other platforms?
Yes. Many certified users display the badge in their B2B marketplace listings or D2C product pages. QR-link verification builds trust.
Can you introduce me to buyers or brands once I’m certified?
While we’re not a matchmaking platform, Label 3 members may be featured on our Preferred Supplier page seen by buyers and formulation consultants.

Is the review process automated or manual?
A real person reviews each application — supported by standard verification tools. This keeps trust high and ensures documentation isn’t gamed.
Do I need to send physical samples?
Not during initial certification. However, for Label 3 or dispute resolution, we may request third-party test results or ask for limited samples.
What if my documentation is in Chinese/Indonesian/Vietnamese?
We accept documentation in your local language during early phases. Translations may be requested later for global display or audit purposes.

Can I upgrade from Label 1 to Label 2 later?
Yes — you only pay the price difference when upgrading within the same 12-month period.
What if a buyer disputes my certification?
We have a dispute-resolution protocol. If a product is found to be falsely certified, the listing is suspended and the badge is revoked.
Is the certification legally binding?
While it is not a government-issued certificate, it is a trust-based certification backed by a verification process. You must sign a terms of use agreement before approval.
Can I certify under multiple business names?
Yes, but each legal entity must apply separately. Parent companies can request multi-brand or multi-unit discounts.