At a time when concern for health and the environment is booming, food labels and certifications play an essential role in guiding consumers. They have become trusted benchmarks guaranteeing certain quality, environmental and health standards. However, the diversity of labels available can sometimes be confusing. In this article, we take a look at the main food labels and certifications to help you better understand their meaning and commitments.
Organic labels: a commitment to the environment
Organic" products are all the rage, but what do they really guarantee? The organic label guarantees that the food has been produced using more sustainable farming practices, without synthetic pesticides, GMOs or natural fertilizers.
- European "Eurofeuille" label
The European Union's organic label, identified by a stylized leaf 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 complying with strict environmental standards. It applies to both plant and animal products, the latter having to meet specific animal welfare requirements.
- AB (Agriculture Biologique) 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 Eurofeuille label: absence of GMOs, limitation of additives, respect for biodiversity and natural cycles.
The Bleu-Blanc-Cœur label: for a healthy diet
Less well known than organic labels, Bleu-Blanc-Cœur is an innovative certification that focuses on the nutritional quality of foodstuffs, particularly their omega-3 content. It's an agricultural approach that relies on specific animal feed (rich in omega-3s, such as flax or alfalfa), aimed at improving the nutritional quality of the meat, milk or eggs produced.
Bleu-Blanc-Cœur goes further than simple product traceability, seeking to rebalance consumers' diets for their own health. Foods derived from this approach are recognized for their beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system, cholesterol management and the prevention of certain inflammatory diseases.
Label Rouge: superior quality made in France
Label Rouge is a recognized French certification guaranteeing superior taste quality. It is often applied to meat, poultry, dairy products, fruit and vegetables. The specificity of this label is that it is based on strict production, processing and preservation criteria, ensuring that the products are clearly distinguished from those produced by conventional channels.
In particular, this certification attests to production conditions that are more respectful of animals, traditional rearing methods and quality feed, all of which contribute to the improved texture and flavor of labelled products.
Fair Trade labels: a social and environmental commitment
As part of a responsible consumer approach, fair trade labels such as Fairtrade/Max Havelaar guarantee ethical and ecological business practices. These certifications ensure that producers, mainly 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 or cotton. In addition to the social aspect, these labels promote environmentally-friendly farming practices, often aligned with organic criteria, 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 a number of specific certifications have emerged to guarantee more animal-friendly farming.
- Free-range" label
This label is frequently seen on products such as eggs and poultry. It certifies that animals have access to an outdoor area for part of their lives, allowing them to move around freely, which significantly improves their living conditions.
Eggs must be coded and each number has its own meaning:
0: Organic eggs
1: Free-range hens
2 : Caged hens
3 : Battery hens.
- Animal Welfare" label
This is a more recent label that evaluates animal rearing conditions according to several criteria, such as available space, access to the outdoors, care provided and stress management. This label takes into account the entire life cycle of animals, and applies mainly to pig, poultry and cattle farms.
Environmental Labels: guaranteeing sustainable production
In addition to organic labels, there are also labels that certify farming 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 global 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 go organic.
- Rainforest Alliance
The Rainforest Alliance label is awarded to products from sustainably managed farms, mainly in tropical regions. It aims to protect ecosystems, guarantee a decent income for farm workers and preserve biodiversity.
How do you find your way through the multitude of labels?
With so many different food labels to choose from, it can be hard to find your way around. Here are a few practical tips:
- Decipher the label: Learn to spot logos and understand what they really guarantee.
- Opt for recognized labels: Choose labels controlled by independent organizations, such as AB, Fairtrade or Rainforest.
- Find out about label criteria: some labels focus on a particular aspect (animal welfare, environment, health), so choose the ones 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. Although the diversity of these labels can sometimes seem complex, each one represents a specific commitment. Understanding what they mean can help you make more enlightened food choices, in line with your values. At a time when food quality and environmental issues are crucial, labels form a bridge between consumers and producers concerned about these essential questions.