Washington, DC—Fairtrade America, the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), and the Non-GMO Project have joined forces to launch “Little Labels, Big Impact.” This campaign is focused on building sustainable and resilient food systems. The program is drawing attention to third- party certification labels, demanding that labels be clearer and sustainability claims be verified. As the companies point out in a press release, “nearly 70% of American seafood consumers demand that retailers’ and brands’ claims about sustainability and the lab environment be clear third-party verified” (GlobeScan 2023).
The initiative encourages Americans to look for little labels that support their values when shopping. The campaign highlights the importance of market-based solutions in driving critical environmental and social change in our food systems. A recent survey from GlobeScand of America shows that nearly Consumers say eco-labels on products raise their trust and confidence in the brand.
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Starting in January, consumers can find the Fairtrade Mark, MSC blue fish, and Non-GMO butterfly on products in local grocery stores.
Fairtrade Mark
This label signals a choice to prioritize the farmers and workers behind everyday purchases. The blue and green label is often found on coffee, tea, chocolate, bananas, and other produce, cotton, and more.
MSC Blue Fish
This eco-label lets shoppers identify wild-caught seafood that has been independently verified for environmentally sustainable fishing practices. Purchasing seafood with these labels directly supports well-managed fishers that have been assessed by a third party can be found. These pouched, frozen, or over-the-counter seafood. It may also be on pet food and supplements.
Non-GMO Project verification
This orange butterfly label means that a product is in compliance with the Non-GMO Project Standard, which is the most rigorous third-party standard for GMO avoidance. This certification includes ingredient testing, traceability, and up-to-date GMO techniques. Find this label on fresh and packaged foods, in particular foods containing corn, soy, and sugar derivatives. This includes diary, meat, fruits, vegetables, oils, supplements, body care products, and more.
When customers choose to purchase products with these labels, they are supporting everyone who works on the supply chain and all those helping to make the planet more sustainable.
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