Organic Certification: A Shield Against Food Greenwashing

?? (Written by Anil M V, 24 years experience, {Bsc. Agric, MBA, CTP}

Founder, * Organil Services)

In a world where consumer awareness about food production and its impact on health and the environment is growing, organic certification stands as a beacon of authenticity. It acts as a shield, protecting consumers from falling prey to the deceptive practices of food greenwashing. The term "greenwashing" refers to the misleading or deceptive claims made by companies regarding the environmental or health benefits of their products or practices. Organic certification, on the other hand, offers a reliable standard by which consumers can assess the integrity of the food they purchase and also if there is robust system by the competent Authorities to validate the accredited compliance guardian of respective Countries Organic Codex.

Why Food Greenwashing is a Criticality to the Economy ?

• Food greenwashing is the practice of misleading consumers about the environmental and health benefits of a food product or service.
• Food greenwashing can take many forms, such as using vague or false claims, deceptive labels, or attractive packaging to create a positive image of a product that is not truly eco-friendly or healthy.
• Food greenwashing can harm consumers, who may end up paying more for products that do not deliver what they promise, and the environment, which may suffer from the negative impacts of unsustainable food production and consumption.

One of the most common and prevalent forms of food greenwashing is the misuse of the term "organic". Organic food is food that is produced, processed, and traded in accordance with specific standards and regulations that prohibit or limit the use of synthetic chemicals, genetically modified organisms, irradiation, and other harmful practices. Organic food aims to provide healthy food, protect the environment, enhance biodiversity, and support the livelihoods of farmers and rural communities.

Organic Certification isn't just a label; it represents a commitment from soil health to animal welfare and beyond, organic certification encompasses a holistic approach to food production that prioritizes the well-being of both people and the planet.

Furthermore, organic certification sets stringent standards for animal welfare. Organic livestock must have access to outdoor areas where they can engage in natural behaviors such as grazing and foraging. They are also fed organic feed, free from genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and synthetic additives. These practices not only ensure the well-being of the animals but also result in products that are higher in nutritional quality.

In addition to environmental and animal welfare considerations, organic certification prioritizes transparency and traceability throughout the supply chain. Farmers and processors undergo regular inspections and audits to verify compliance with organic standards. This rigorous oversight helps to build trust between producers and consumers, ensuring that organic claims are backed by credible evidence.

The importance of organic certification becomes even more pronounced in light of the prevalence of food greenwashing in today's marketplace. With terms like "natural," "eco-friendly," and "sustainable" being used loosely and often without regulation, consumers are left vulnerable to misleading marketing tactics. Organic certification provides a clear and reliable way for consumers to identify products that have been produced according to strict environmental and ethical standards. Food businesses in India will not be able to use words or phrases such as natural, fresh, original, traditional, authentic, genuine and real on food labels except under specific conditions detailed as per a notification issued by FSSAI The regulations — Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018. Several of the claims are permitted to be made by FBOs without the need for seeking prior approval from the food regulator and only those claims which are not standardised under these regulations may require approval from the food authority and should be supported with sound scientific basis, according to FSSAI.

Moreover, choosing organic products isn't just about personal health; it's also a vote for a more sustainable future. By supporting organic farmers and producers, consumers are contributing to a food system that prioritizes soil health, biodiversity, and long-term resilience. Organic agriculture has the potential to mitigate climate change, improve water quality, and promote rural livelihoods.

Organic certification serves as a vital tool in the fight against food greenwashing. By adhering to rigorous standards for environmental sustainability, animal welfare, and transparency, organic certification offers consumers peace of mind knowing that the products they purchase are truly what they claim to be. As the demand for organic food continues to grow, so too does the importance of upholding the integrity of organic certification, ensuring that it remains a beacon of authenticity in an increasingly complex food landscape.