The ABCs of Food Labels
The multitude of food labels & certifications can be confusing. Corporations know that concerned consumers want assurance that their food is sourced ethically and sustainably. Unfortunately, not all labels are created equal.
The multitude of food labels & certifications can be confusing. Corporations know that concerned consumers want assurance that their food is sourced ethically and sustainably. Unfortunately, not all labels are created equal.
How do you sort the fact from fiction and get to the bottom of how your food is produced? Fortunately, there are several legitimate certifications that have high standards for animal welfare and environmental practices. These typically ensure compliance through audits and inspections.
Below is a comprehensive list of common food labels, rated on how well they adhere to the standards they claim to ensure. The ratings also account for how well the label guarantees good overall applicable environmental practices, animal stewardship, and/or human well-being. (Details on how we rated the labels are at the bottom of each section.)
From now on, when you see a label you aren’t sure about, you can consult this helpful, alphabetical list that is grouped into three categories (environmental concerns, animal welfare, and human well-being). Keep a printed copy with your reusable grocery bags or access the list from your phone.
Download your Food Labels Guide here or view them by category below.
We have had many big breakthroughs recently. Major companies across all industries are changing -- proof of the power of consumer pressure. We are witnessing how our economic power is truly changing the world for good and towards a simpler, more sustainable way of living. We are winning and we are opening doors for more businesses to go green.
Learn more...
Safeway and other major grocery chains have a huge climate problem. Refrigerators in the companies’ stores using potent super-pollutant gasses, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), are leaking and accelerating the climate crisis.
We need you to send a letter to US bank executives today. Tell these megabanks to finance clean energy for people and planet, not fossil fuels that cause climate chaos.
Vanguard is lagging on climate: It’s the top fossil fuel investor and is failing to hold companies accountable on their climate and sustainability impacts.
U.S. agriculture is becoming increasingly toxic to pollinators – the very creatures so much of our food system relies on. Toxic pesticides are a big reason for this unfolding tragedy. Yet millions of crops every year are still treated with toxic pesticides.
The holidays are upon us and with them the flurry to find the perfect gift for loved ones. This year, consider giving to not just people, but the planet, too, by shopping our guide of sustainable gifts. From pets to the ones who say they don’t…
From the most recent issue of our magazine, Green American, where we update readers on the progress we've made over the last quarter on climate, finance, food, labor, social justice, and more.
We made tremendous progress…