After the Nutri-Score, soon a Planet-Score? For 86% of French people, an environmental score on food products would be “essential”, indicated a BVA study commissioned by the En Vérité collective, which brings together more than 60 food brands including Yoplait, Candia and Entremont, this Thursday.
The Planet-Score, developed by the Institute of Organic Agriculture and Food (ITAB), a public utility association supported by the Ministry of Agriculture, assigns a grade between A and E to the product, in particular in depending on the impact on biodiversity, the climate and the use of pesticides. It has been tested since the end of 2021 and 187 food companies are experimenting with it today, can we read on its site.
To a representative sample of the French population of 1,000 people, the BVA polling institute offered various products, first without environmental labeling, then with a “Planet-Score” in order to measure its relevance.
The Planet-Score is “conclusive” affirmed Régis Olagne of BVA: “simple to use, allowing to understand and facilitating the choice”, the consumers redirecting their choices when this indicator is present, noted the analyst.
Pesticides at the top of concerns
Asked about the “concrete commitments expected” from brands on environmental issues, consumers answered 42% the non-use of pesticides, 42% also a respectful farming method, 32% the preservation of the climate, 30% the preservation of biodiversity and 27% the preservation of resources, according to the BVA study.
The publication of this study comes as the government has begun consultation with the various players in the sector to propose environmental labeling by the end of 2023, within the framework of the Climate Law.