Environmental Labeling: the importance of communicating ecological commitment through transparent and certified labels

In recent years, sustainability has become a central theme in the global food industry. Consumers are increasingly aware of the environmental impact of the products they buy and are looking for companies that demonstrate real ecological commitment. In this context, environmental labeling emerges as a crucial tool for guiding consumer choices and promoting sustainable practices by companies.

Environmental labeling is an effective tool for communicating a product’s sustainability and building consumer trust. Through recognized certifications and symbols, companies can demonstrate their commitment to reducing carbon emissions, responsible resource use and waste management. In increasingly regulated and competitive markets, well-communicated environmental transparency can become a strategic advantage.

To ensure credibility, it is critical that labels are simple, clear and easily understood, avoiding overly technical terms that could confuse consumers. Some of the major environmental certification systems in the food industry include:

ISO 14024 – International standard for eco-labels based on strict environmental criteria. Carbon Trust Label – Indicates a product’s carbon footprint and its impact on greenhouse gas emissions. Organic Certifications (such as EU Organic and USDA Organic) – Attest to sustainable farming practices that are free of chemical pesticides. MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) and ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council)-Certifications for sustainable fishing and aquaculture.

Even in markets Alifood is very fond of, such as Southeast Asia, the focus on sustainability is growing rapidly, with governments and companies adopting stricter environmental transparency policies. Countries such as Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia are implementing increasingly stringent regulations on environmental labels, pushing companies to comply with international standards.

Environmental labeling is not only a regulatory requirement (European regulation 97/129/EC), but a strategic opportunity for food companies that want to stand out in an increasingly sustainability-conscious market. In Southeast Asia, where environmental awareness is on the rise, transparently communicating and certifying one’s environmental commitment can make the difference between a successful brand and one struggling to stand out. Investing in clear and reliable environmental labels is a key step in building trust, improving corporate reputation, and meeting the needs of an increasingly conscious and responsible consumer.