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Utrecht ľ�ϸ���Ӱ�� have contributed as experts to an assessment of internationally recognised sustainability standards and labels used the Dutch food sector. The results of the assessment are integrated into Milieu Centraal’s  (Label Guide), an online tool that helps consumers navigate the wide range of labels on food products.

The year-long process, led by knowledge centre Milieu Centraal, has resulted in the identification of thirteen labels that stand out as the most ambitious in terms of sustainability. “By providing independent assessments, we help highlight which labels truly make a difference to livelihoods and the environment,” say the two contributing Utrecht researchers, René Verburg and Pita Verweij.

Focus on tropical products

Verburg and Verweij, who are based at the Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, assessed the sustainability criteria of standards for tropical products, including coffee, tea, cocoa, tropical vegetables and fruits. Their expertise helped evaluate how these standards address key sustainability issues, including biodiversity, soil and water quality, working conditions, living income for farmers, and impacts on local communities.

This knowledge helps policymakers, retailers and other value chain actors to improve practices in global supply chains.

The guide highlights which labels can be trusted and how they score on themes such as environment, climate, animal welfare, fair working conditions, and local land use rights.

Thirteen frontrunners identified

In total, 22 independent experts collaborated with Milieu Centraal to assess around 80 standards across 11 product groups. Thirteen labels emerged as frontrunners in sustainability ambition: ASC, Beter Leven 3 sterren, Demeter, EU-biologisch, EKO-NL 3 sterren, Fair for Life, Fairtrade, Fair Trade Certified, MSC, Pro Terra, Rainforest Alliance, RSPO, Sustainable Rice Platform.

Supporting sustainable choices

“By systematically comparing sustainability standards, we can show where progress is being made and where challenges remain,” says Verweij. “This knowledge helps policymakers, retailers and other value chain actors to improve practices in global supply chains.”

Strong and reliable labels can make a real difference for farmers and ecosystems worldwide.

“Our work on tropical products underlines that sustainability is not only about the environment, but also about people’s livelihoods,” adds Verburg. “Strong and reliable labels can make a real difference for farmers and ecosystems worldwide.”