Calibration of industrial temperature sensors: what will the regulations say in 2026?

The number of connected objects worldwide already exceeds 15 billion, and is expected to top 30 to 40 billion by 2030. Against this backdrop, accurate temperature measurement has become crucial to secure the storage and transport of temperature-sensitive goods, such as foodstuffs and pharmaceuticals.

European regulation no. 37/2005 governs temperature control in transport vehicles, as well as in warehousing and storage facilities for frozen foods. Since January 1, 2010, all temperature recorders installed in vehicles transporting deep-frozen foodstuffs must comply with standard NF EN 12830, and be subject to periodic verification in accordance with standard NF EN 13486.

EN 12830 standard

Standard EN 12830 defines the performance and reliability requirements for temperature recorders used to monitor the cold chain. It specifies how devices must measure, record and return temperatures, in order to guarantee the traceability of heat-sensitive products.

EN 13486:2023: new features and technical requirements

EN 13486:2023, introduced in 2023, replaces the previous 2002 version. It provides a clearer, more harmonized approach to the verification of temperature sensors. It defines several levels of accuracy for different applications, from pharmaceuticals to food and beverages, and sets stricter error tolerances and uncertainty requirements for each than before. The aim is to ensure greater measurement reliability, whatever the temperature range used.

The standard also specifies the method to be used to demonstrate conformity during verification. In practice, each sensor simply has to prove that its measurement deviations remain within the limits set by the corresponding accuracy level. These developments make it easier to compare instruments and boost confidence in the quality of recorded data.

Key point to remember : for the transport and storage of frozen foodstuffs at negative temperatures, periodic verification is mandatory, in accordance with European regulation no. 37/2005. On the other hand, for sensors used at positive or ambient temperature (e.g. +2°C to +8°C), verification is not mandatory, but is strongly recommended, as it can guarantee compliance during quality or pharmaceutical audits.

In concrete terms, verification must be carried out at operating temperatures: a single measurement point may suffice for a fixed range (e.g. -20°C only), but several points are required if the sensor operates at different temperatures (e.g. -20°C and +2°C).

Using a COFRAC-accredited laboratory for these checks (mandatory or preventive) ensures traceability of measurements, regulatory compliance and recognition of calibration certificates in France and abroad.

COFRAC and accreditation

COFRAC (French Accreditation Committee) is the national body responsible for recognizing the technical competence of laboratories, certification and inspection bodies.
In the field of calibration, COFRAC guarantees that measurements are traceable to national standards and comply with international standard ISO/CEI 17025.

Using a COFRAC-accredited laboratory for verification to EN 13486:2023 ensures the legal validity and recognition of calibration certificates.

It’s no longer a question of simply having a sensor, but of guaranteeing that it is certified, calibrated and traceable, in order to comply with the requirements of audits, health authorities and customers in the agri-food or pharmaceutical sectors.

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To conclude

Temperature control in the cold chain remains a central element of food safety and industrial performance. In 2026, at a time when connected sensors are proliferating, demanding compliance with EN 13486:2023 and EN 12830 standards is a guarantee of reliability and regulatory compliance.
These requirements are not just a constraint, but a real lever for confidence and quality for all sectors handling temperature-sensitive products.