Food sustainability

Our food system will experience an unprecedented confluence of challenges over the next decades. The world's population is expected to reach over nine billion by 2050, increasing the demand for food. 

At the same time, our planet’s resources are dwindling and agricultural production will be confronted with the effects of climate change. The availability, price and quality of food could be severely affected if no action is taken. Many consumers feel concerned and are willing to make more sustainable food choices but struggle turning words into deeds for a series of reasons including availability, price and labelling of sustainable food options. Sustainable food choices must be made easier and affordable.

For a more sustainable food consumption and production, BEUC considers necessary to:

• Inform consumers about how their food is produced;
• Ensure that the types of production/processing methods used are in line with consumers’ expectations;
• Integrate sustainability elements in all food production standards;
• Make sure healthy and sustainable food choices are the easy option;
• Allow consumers to make informed choices;
• Reduce food waste.