IPPC label
What is an IPPC label?
The IPPC label stands for “International Plant Protection Convention. This label indicates that the wood packaging material has been treated according to ISPM 15 standards (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No.15). According to these standards, wood used for making pallets, crates and other packaging materials must be specifically treated. For example, IPPC wants to minimize the risk of spreading plant diseases and pests.
Why is the IPPC label essential?
The IPPC label is essential for several reasons, most notably preventing the spread of plant diseases and pests internationally. Here are some reasons why the IPPC label is critical:
- Food safety: The IPPC label aims to prevent the spread of plant diseases and pests harmful to plants and crops. By preventing the spread of such diseases and pests, the IPPC label contributes to food safety worldwide. It prevents pests from spreading to new areas and threatening agricultural and food production.
- Protecting ecosystems: Plant diseases and pests not only affect agriculture and crops, but also threaten native plant species and ecosystems. The IPPC label helps prevent the introduction and establishment of invasive species, thereby protecting biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance.
- Trade facilitation: The IPPC label is an important requirement for international trade in wooden packaging, such as pallets and crates. Many countries have rules and regulations that require wood packaging to comply with ISPM 15. The IPPC label on wood packaging indicates that the wood material has been treated according to these standards and minimizes the risk of spreading harmful diseases and pests through international trade.
- International Cooperation: The IPPC label is the result of international cooperation and agreement. Countries participating in the IPPC recognize the importance of joint efforts to address the spread of plant diseases and pests. This promotes global cooperation and coordination to address common plant health challenges.
What are ISPM 15 standards?
The ISPM 15 standards require that the wood be treated by heat treatment (for example, heat treatment at a certain temperature for a certain time) or chemical treatment (for example, fumigation with methyl bromide). After successful treatment, the wood material receives an IPPC mark, which consists of a standardized logo with a unique identification number, demonstrating compliance with ISPM 15 standards.
How do you recognize the IPPC label?
You can recognize the IPPC label by the following characteristics:
- Logo: The IPPC label has a specific logo that makes it easily identifiable. The logo consists of a stylized plant and the letters “IPPC.”
- Unique identification number: Under the logo, you will see a unique identification number. Each wood packaging material that meets ISPM 15 standards is assigned a unique number.
- Treatment symbol: In addition to the logo and identification number, the IPPC label also contains a symbol that indicates the treatment the wood has undergone. This can be a “HT” for heat treatment (Heat Treatment) or “MB” for fumigation with methyl bromide (Methyl Bromide).
- Country code: Sometimes the country code is also mentioned on the IPPC label. This code indicates the country in which the treatment took place

