The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has observed that many coffee and cocoa products have sustainability claims on their packaging that are too vague or general. This makes it unclear Exactly What Sustainability Benefit The Coffee Has.
This groups Terms Such as “Sustainable” and “Responsible Grown” Without Thesis Claims Being Substantiated. It is Difficult for Customers to Assess Whether These Claims are correct. The ACM Believes that coffee and cocoa companies should communicate more clearly and honestly about the Sustainability Statements They make.
This is not just about the climate, but also about working conditions, Human Rights and Animal Welfare. Many Products from the coffee and cocoa sector are produced in Tropical Countries. Deforestation, Loss Of Biodiversity and Soil Depletion Can Play A Role in Production. Companies Want to show that they are aware of this with sustainability claims, but thesis statements must be clear.
If a coffee or cocoa package says “responsly Grown”, it is unclear Exactly What the Sustainability Benefit is. It could be about the way of growing, about the working conditions of the farmers or about their wages.
The Regulator Will Conduct Additional Research. If the ACM Comes Across Claims that do not comply with consumer legislation, a fine may follow.