Publication of the new GS1 Benelux FMCG & Foodservice data model (August 2025)

The new version of the GS1 Benelux data model for the FMCG & Foodservice sector (3.1.32) has been published. It will go live on 23 August 2025. Retailers will receive data according to the new data model from then on. Suppliers should therefore ensure that any changes have been implemented by then.

New and modified fields

A ‘repairability index’ attribute is added to indicate the score that household appliances and electronic products receive on the repairability index.
For products falling under the European deforestation regulation (EUDR), the instructions have been clarified. You indicate whether the regulation applies via two attributes:

Attribute 1: Type of regulation/directive = deforestation regulation (DEFORESTATION_REGULATION)	Attribute 2: Article compliance indicator = True (TRUE)	Meaning: The European deforestation regulation (EUDR) applies to this product.
Attribute 1: Type of regulation/directive = deforestation regulation (DEFORESTATION_REGULATION	Attribute 2: Article compliance indicator = Not applicable (NOT_APPLICABLE)	Meaning: The European deforestation regulation (EUDR) does not apply to this product.

Global Changes

The adjustments to attributes, code lists and validations at global level will not have a significant impact on the local Benelux FMCG data model in August.

New and Updated Validations

In Belgium, the VAT rate of 21% corresponds to code value ‘STANDARD’ in the ‘Tax category code’ attribute. As ‘HIGH’ is often used incorrectly, a validation rule (VR_DIY_B2B_0077) will be implemented as a warning in August and as a blocking error from November.
For specific product groups, it is important to indicate whether the product is or contains a dangerous substance. The validation rule that checks this (VR_DANGEROUS_GOODS_0136) will be changed from a warning to an error.
The control for correct use of net weight and net content will become stricter:
- Net weight is mandatory for food, food supplements and pet food.
- If net content is used, it must be expressed in at least one of the following units of measure: ‘CMT’, ‘MMT’, ‘MTR’, ‘KGM’, ‘GRM’, ‘LTR’, ‘CLT’, ‘MLT’, ‘MTK’, ‘EA’ or ‘H87’.