In a context where health and environmental concerns are on the rise, food labels and certifications play a vital role in guiding consumers. They have become trusted benchmarks, guaranteeing certain standards of quality, environmental responsibility, and health. However, the sheer number of available labels can sometimes be confusing. In this article, we offer an explanation of the main food labels and certifications to help you better understand their meanings and commitments.
Organic labels: a commitment to the environment
Products labeled "organic" are booming, but what do they really guarantee? The organic label ensures that the food has been produced in compliance with more sustainable agricultural practices, without synthetic pesticides, without GMOs and with natural fertilizers.
European label “Euroleaf”
The European Union's organic label, identifiable by a stylized leaf made up of white stars on a green background, is the most common certification in Europe. It guarantees that the product contains at least 95% organically grown ingredients, while adhering to strict environmental standards. It applies to both plant and animal products, the latter having to meet specific animal welfare requirements.
Organic Farming (AB label)
The AB label is a French certification created in 1985. Today, it coexists with the European label but remains a well-known benchmark for French consumers. It is based on the same principles as the Euroleaf label: absence of GMOs, limitation of additives, and respect for biodiversity and natural cycles.
The Bleu-Blanc-Cœur label: for healthy food
Less well-known than organic labels, Bleu-Blanc-Cœur is an innovative certification that focuses on the nutritional quality of food, particularly omega-3 content. It is an agricultural approach based on specific animal feed (rich in omega-3, such as flax or alfalfa), aiming to improve the nutritional quality of the meat, milk or eggs produced.
Bleu-Blanc-Cœur goes beyond simple product traceability, aiming to rebalance consumers' diets for their health. Foods produced through this initiative are recognized as beneficial for the cardiovascular system, cholesterol management, and the prevention of certain inflammatory diseases.
Label Rouge: superior quality Made in France
The Label Rouge is a recognized French certification that guarantees superior taste. It is often found on meats, poultry, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables. The unique aspect of this label is that it is based on strict criteria for production, processing, and preservation, ensuring that the products are clearly distinct from those produced through conventional channels.
This certification attests in particular to production conditions that are more respectful of animals, traditional farming methods and quality feed, which contributes to a better texture and flavor of the labeled products.
Fair Trade labels: a social and environmental commitment
As part of a responsible consumption approach, fair trade labels such as Fairtrade/Max Havelaar guarantee ethical and environmentally friendly business practices. These certifications ensure that producers, primarily from developing countries, receive a decent income and work under fair conditions.
This type of label is often applied to products such as coffee, cocoa, sugar, and cotton. In addition to their social impact, these labels promote environmentally friendly agricultural practices, often aligned with organic standards, and thus contribute to the fight against deforestation and soil erosion.
Animal Welfare Labels: More Respectful Standards
Animal welfare is a growing concern for consumers and certain specific certifications have emerged to guarantee more animal-friendly farming.
"Free-Range" label
This label is frequently seen on products such as eggs or poultry. It certifies that the animals have access to an outdoor space for part of their lives, allowing them to move freely, which significantly improves their living conditions.
Regarding the eggs, these are necessarily coded and each number has its own meaning:
0: Organic eggs
1: Free-range chicken
2: Caged hen
3: Battery-farmed hen.
Animal Welfare Label
This is a more recent label that assesses animal welfare conditions based on several criteria, such as available space, access to the outdoors, care provided, and stress management. This label considers the entire life cycle of the animals and applies primarily to pig, poultry, and cattle farms.
Environmental Labels: guaranteeing sustainable production
In addition to organic labels, some labels aim to certify agricultural practices that are particularly respectful of the environment.
HVE (High Environmental Value)
This French label guarantees biodiversity management on farms. It is based on a holistic approach to farming, taking into account water and energy management, soil conservation, and pest control. This label is an excellent compromise for environmentally conscious consumers who don't necessarily want to switch to organic.
Rainforest Alliance
The Rainforest Alliance label is awarded to products that come from sustainably managed farms, primarily in tropical regions. It aims to protect ecosystems, guarantee a decent income for farm workers, and preserve biodiversity.
How can we find our way through the multitude of labels?
With so many different food labels, it can be difficult to know what to look for. Here are some practical tips:
Decipher the label : Learn to spot logos and understand what they really guarantee.
Opt for recognized labels : Favor labels controlled by independent organizations, such as the AB Label, Fairtrade, or Rainforest.
Find out about the criteria for the labels : Some labels focus on a particular aspect (animal welfare, environment, health), choose those that best match your priorities.
In conclusion, food labels and certifications are valuable tools for consumers concerned about their health, animal welfare, and the environment. While the diversity of these labels can sometimes seem complex, each one represents a specific commitment. Understanding their meaning allows consumers to make more informed food choices that align with their values. At a time when food quality and environmental issues are crucial, labels serve as a bridge between consumers and producers who are committed to these essential concerns.
