Climate advertising on food packaging: How financial experts check the promises

Climate advertising on food packaging: How financial experts check the promises

According to a report by www.tlz.de, more and more food is being advertised as climate-friendly. But an investigation by consumer advice centers shows that many of these statements are misleading and represent false advertising promises from the manufacturers.

Of 87 products tested, 53 were advertised as “climate neutral” and some as “climate or CO2 positive”. This can lead to misconceptions among consumers. The promises on the packaging are often difficult to verify and there is a lack of clear explanations on how to classify climate and CO2 claims. In addition, companies often refer to further information on the Internet, which makes it more difficult for consumers to check.

Behind information that cannot be verified, there are often compensation payments in compensation projects that, according to the consumer advice center, do not deliver what they promise. An example of this are climate protection projects such as hydroelectric power plants, which are built for economic reasons, but not primarily for climate protection reasons.

Since there are currently no recognized seals in the area of ​​climate advertising, the consumer advice center recommends placing less emphasis on company promises and instead paying attention to a truly sustainable diet. This includes, among other things, reducing animal products, minimizing food waste at home and buying organic, regional and seasonal products.

This misleading climate advertising can lead consumers to buy products that they believe are sustainable, even though the actual climate and environmental impact is questionable. It is up to manufacturers to provide transparent and verifiable information and up to consumers to make informed purchasing decisions.