What timeline does the NSF certification cycle generally follow?

The NSF certification cycle generally follows a timeline of 36 months. This duration allows for a systematic evaluation and re-evaluation of the certified product or service. Over this period, NSF conducts audits, ensures compliance with relevant standards, and assesses updates in regulations or industry practices. This timeframe strikes a balance between maintaining rigorous oversight and allowing manufacturers and service providers adequate time to implement changes and improvements. It reflects the necessary frequency for reassessing certification without being overly burdensome, thereby ensuring ongoing consumer safety and product integrity.