When navigating the aisles of a grocery store, consumers are often bombarded with an array of labels and logos on food packaging, each vying for their attention. From nutritional claims like “heart healthy” or “low fat” to brightly colored logos proclaiming “certified gluten free” or “fair trade certified,” the sheer number of labels can be overwhelming and confusing. Among these, third-party certifications stand out, offering a unique set of voluntary labeling claims verified by non-government actors. These certifications aim to signal that a product meets specific standards, but their implications and credibility can be murky for the average shopper.
The U.S. food supply is primarily regulated by two federal agencies: the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The USDA oversees meat, poultry, catfish, and unshelled egg products, while the FDA governs the remaining 80% of the food supply. Together, these agencies ensure that food sold in the U.S. is safe, wholesome, and properly labeled. Mandatory components of food labels, such as the nutrition facts panel, are strictly regulated by these agencies. For example, both the USDA and FDA require labels to include basic nutrition information like calories, total fat, and protein content.
In addition to these mandatory labels, there are voluntary labeling claims that must still comply with USDA or FDA regulations. For example, a product labeled as a “good source of protein” must contain 10 to 19 percent of the Reference Daily Intake or Daily Reference Value for that nutrient. However, third-party certifications operate in a different realm. These certifications are not required to meet any federal regulatory standards and are instead verified by independent entities, which can range from private industry groups to non-government organizations (NGOs) and advocacy groups.
Third-party certifications can cover a wide range of attributes, from environmental impact and animal welfare to human rights and ethical concerns. For instance, the Non-GMO Project is a nonprofit organization that certifies food products as not containing genetically modified organisms. This certification aims to appeal to consumers who are concerned about the long-term effects of genetically modified foods on health and the environment. The verification process involves independent technical administrators who evaluate the product’s compliance with the Non-GMO Standard.
Animal welfare is another significant area for third-party certifications. The American Grassfed certification, operated by the American Grassfed Association (AGA), requires specific husbandry practices for animals. To bear the AGA logo, farms must undergo inspections by AGA-approved inspectors and meet stringent standards for grazing, diets, and antibiotic treatments. This certification targets consumers who prioritize humane and ethical treatment of animals in their purchasing decisions.
Human rights and ethical concerns are also addressed by third-party certifications like Fair Trade Certified. Operated by Fair Trade USA, this certification ensures that products meet standards for worker wages, child labor, and safe working conditions. Fair Trade Certified products span multiple industries, including coffee, dairy, seafood, and even non-food items like floral bouquets. The certification aims to create a positive impact on local communities and ensure a resilient supply chain.
While third-party certifications can provide valuable information and help consumers make informed choices, they are not without their limitations. Unlike mandatory labels regulated by the USDA and FDA, third-party certifications are not subject to direct federal or state regulation unless the product violates food safety laws. This means that the federal government does not verify whether the product meets the specific standards required for the certification logo. However, the USDA’s Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) does require preapproval for certain third-party certifications related to animal raising or environmental claims, urging food producers to have independent verification and substantial documentation to support their claims.
In a market where consumers are increasingly concerned about the ethical, environmental, and health implications of their food choices, third-party certifications serve as a powerful marketing tool. They reflect consumer concerns and help food producers align their products with the values and principles of their target audience. However, the onus remains on consumers to understand the meaning and credibility of these certifications, as the landscape of food labeling continues to evolve.