What is the legal basis?

The Bio-Siegel is registered as a trademark at the German Patent and Brand Office. In addition, the Eco Labelling Act effective as of December 15th, 2001, legally protects the Bio-Siegel. This law, among others things, stipulates penalty and fine directives for misuse of the Bio-Siegel. Label violations can result in a prison sentence, a penalty or a fine of up to 30,000 Euro and the products can be taken off the market. A regulation on the exact design and use of the Bio-Siegel has been effective since February 16th, 2002.