Choosing the right contract manufacturer is the most important decision when launching a functional oral pouch brand. The factory's certifications, documentation and quality systems determine whether your product can legally enter your target markets and whether it will reach consumers in consistent quality. This checklist helps you evaluate potential OEM partners.
SC food production license (mandatory for China-based factories)
Any factory producing oral pouches in China must hold a SC (Food Production License) issued by the provincial market supervision authority. The license specifies the food category — for oral pouches, look for "special dietary foods" or related categories. Verify the license number (format SC + 14 digits) on the official registry. Sonvi Bio holds SC13043011210578 for special dietary foods.
U.S. FDA Food Facility Registration
If your product will be sold in or exported to the United States, the manufacturing facility must be registered with the U.S. FDA. The registration number (e.g., 17237614552 for Sonvi Bio) should appear on your product documentation. FDA registration is renewed every two years.
cGMP Certificate of Compliance
Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) certification demonstrates that the factory follows documented processes for production, quality control, personnel hygiene, facility maintenance and record-keeping. For dietary supplements and functional foods, look for cGMP compliance with 21 CFR Part 111. Sonvi Bio's third-party cGMP certificate (valid through May 2029) is available on our Compliance page.
SDS and air-transport identification
For international shipping, each product should have a GHS-compliant Safety Data Sheet (SDS). Additionally, an air-transport identification report confirms whether the product is classified as restricted or non-restricted cargo for air freight. Non-restricted classification simplifies logistics and reduces shipping costs. Sonvi Bio provides both documents per shipment.
Additional evaluation criteria
Beyond certifications, consider these factors:
- Production capacity and lead time — can they meet your volume and timeline?
- Dedicated filling lines — do they separate formulation families to prevent cross-contact?
- Sampling speed — how quickly can you evaluate a formula before committing?
- IP protection — is your brand and artwork protected under NDA?
- Regulatory support — do they provide documentation for your target markets?