Audits conducted within the scope of the Smart Supplement Certificate are carried out through a systematic process to objectively evaluate product quality, reliability, and scientific validity. This auditing process covers a broad framework extending from production to sustainability, rather than focusing solely on the product ingredients.
The audit is primarily performed based on a predetermined scoring system. Each criterion is evaluated on a scale of 0 to 5. This system, ranging from the “excellent” level to the “non-compliant” level, clearly highlights a company’s strengths and areas requiring improvement. However, there are certain criteria classified as “critical,” and any deficiency in these areas results in immediate failure.
One of the first and most important steps of the audit process is the evaluation of production facilities. Compliance with GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) standards plays a critical role at this stage. Hygiene conditions of the facility, personnel training records, quality control processes, and contamination prevention systems are examined in detail. A facility lacking GMP compliance cannot pass the audit, regardless of how well it performs in other areas.
In the second stage, the scientific infrastructure of the product is evaluated. Within this scope, clinical and experimental evidence is examined. The level at which scientific studies related to the product are published (Q1–Q4 journals), and the presence and quality of in vitro and in vivo tests are decisive factors in this section. A lack of scientific data is a critical factor that directly and negatively affects the audit result.
Another important area of evaluation is bioinformatics analysis. The molecular-level analysis of active ingredients in the product, the modeling of mechanisms of action, and the investigation of potential side effects are addressed at this stage. Additionally, ensuring that the data used is based on reliable databases is an important part of the audit.
The audit is not limited solely to technical and scientific matters. Social responsibility and sustainability criteria are also important components of the process. The company’s participation in projects contributing to public health, transparent reporting, and the sustainable execution of these activities are evaluated. Likewise, eco-friendly production, carbon footprint tracking, the use of recyclable packaging, and supply chain management are examined within the scope of sustainability.
All these categories are scored based on specific weightings, and the total score is calculated by averaging each category. The final score obtained determines the product’s certification level. While high-scoring products reach Platinum or Gold levels, low scores may result in failure.
In conclusion, the audit process is a detailed, multi-faceted evaluation mechanism based on scientific foundations. The aim is not only to issue a certificate but also to raise the quality standards of products and maximize consumer confidence to the highest level.