LCA ecolabels: the new benchmark for sustain­able food choices

Supermarkets are increasingly using LCA-based ecolabels (Life Cycle Assessment) to help consumers make more environmentally conscious decisions. These labels map out the entire life cycle of products, from raw material extraction to waste management. They provide hard data on the ecological footprint and are already widely used by retailers, food processors, and financial institutions.

“Most Western European retailers are already experimenting with LCA-based ecolabels. These are often their own initiatives,” says Seval Cicek of Wageningen Social & Economic Research.

The need for harmonisation

The growth of these labels also comes with challenges. Various public and private labels apply their own methodologies, leading to consumer confusion and increased administrative burdens for producers.

The Eco Food Choice project is therefore advocating for a standardised system. In their report, which discusses sixteen relevant LCA ecolabels in Europe, they highlight the main obstacles and opportunities.

A joint approach is essential

The report stresses that the private sector can play a crucial role in developing practical solutions, such as IT tools for data collection and improved systems for data sharing. Researcher Koen Boone emphasises the importance of collaboration: “Collaboration between private and public parties is crucial. In the long term, this will lead to the best ecolabel.”

A future harmonised system should consist of six core components, including clear requirements for data collection, an independently managed database, and transparent methods for translating LCA scores into understandable consumer labels. This would further stimulate sustainable production and provide consumers with reliable information for making informed choices.

Wur.nl