ISO Introduces New Plant-Based Food Labelling Standard
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has introduced a new standard for plant-based food labelling. This move, supported by major regions like the United States, Europe, and the BRICS countries, aims to boost consumer trust and promote clarity in the labelling of plant-based foods.
The ISO standard allows brands to confidently use the term 'plant-based' on products with no animal ingredients. For products containing limited or conditional animal ingredients, qualifiers like 'plant-based vegetarian' or 'plant-strong' must be used. This distinction aims to provide consumers with clear information about the products they purchase.
The standard, while voluntary, is expected to influence national regulations, corporate labelling practices, and retailer policies worldwide. It could pave the way for governmental legislation in the sector. Notably, the EU Parliament's agriculture committee recently voted to ban meat-like terms on vegan alternatives, indicating a shift in regulation. The ISO standard, however, prefers the term 'plant-based' over 'vegan', appealing to a broader range of consumers.
The ISO standard for plant-based food labelling, supported by global powers, seeks to enhance consumer trust and promote clear, consistent labelling. While voluntary, it is anticipated to influence regulations and practices globally, potentially leading to further legislation in the sector.
