Publication of the new GS1 Benelux FMCG & Foodservice data model (August 2026)

The new version of the GS1 Benelux data model for the FMCG & Foodservice sector (3.1.36) has been published. It will go live on 22 August 2026. 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 Attributes

The attribute “Drug or supplement side effects and warnings” will have restricted use and will no longer apply to special foods, medical devices and personal care products. References to this attribute will be updated in the instructions for the “Consumer usage and storage instructions” attribute. A validation rule (warning) will encourage correct usage according to the product category.
The instructions for “Origin declaration” have been clarified. This attribute is intended to indicate the origin of primary ingredients and not to be used for marketing texts containing geographical references.
For the “Net content statement” attribute, the usage notes clarify that information about the number of servings must not be provided.
The code list for the “Single Use Plastic (SUP) Category” (target market: the Netherlands) will be updated at the request of Verpact.

Global Changes

The maximum allowed length of several attributes that are also part of the Benelux FMCG data model will be adjusted. No attribute will have its maximum permitted length reduced.
85 new code values will be added to the GDSN code lists in use, including several Benelux-specific codes such as:
- “Prix Juste Producteur”, a label displayed on packaging and awarded by the Collège des Producteurs
- “Green Score”, a label displayed on packaging indicating the environmental impact of a product.

New and Modified Validations

Warning VR_FMCGB2C_0368 will be reactivated. This warning indicates that the required contact information must be provided. Cosmetic products are excluded from this warning.
New warnings will be added to verify that the correct language has been used for uploaded safety data sheets intended for the target markets Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.
Several new warnings will be introduced to improve consistency between the “Packaging type code” and the “Packaging material type code”.