Labeled For Success

Market research shows that today’s consumers are increasingly interested in knowing where their food comes from and how it is produced. Many now actively seek out independent third-party certifications they can trust so they can feel good about the food they purchase.

The great news is your certification ticks all the right boxes. As an AGW-certified business, you’ve earned the right to use some of the most valuable and meaningful labels in the marketplace today. And you’re ideally placed to meet the growing demand for high-welfare, sustainable, locally produced food.

Raising awareness

To help us increase consumer recognition and awareness of AGW-certified businesses, we now require all certified operations to display the appropriate AGW logo(s) on all certified products, unless otherwise agreed with AGW.

If you’re already using an AGW logo, we need to approve logo use on all product labels (see the Traceability section of the relevant AGW standard), so please send us a digital copy of your product labels for rapid approval via email (see details below). All labeling designs will also be subject to audit review.

Updating designs

If you are not already using the logo on existing packaging, we understand the updating process may entail additional time and cost, so get in touch to discuss an appropriate timeline to replace any pre-printed packaging stock or if you need help adding the logo to your existing designs.

Various options are available for adding the AGW logos to packaging, including redesigning your existing product label or purchasing high- quality AGW-branded logo stickers (available in English and French). We can also offer professional assistance with packaging redesigns and can even design a completely new label. Contact us to find out more about these services.

Using the logo

You will find full guidelines on how to display the AGW logo on your packaging in section P5 of our Policy Manual. You can also download AGW logos on our website (or just get in touch).

In some cases, you may have valid reasons why you cannot use the logo. For example:

• Your business is not yet certified.
• Your processor refuses or is not legally able to affix the logo.
• Your retailers/buyers/wholesalers do not allow it.
• Branded stickers are not practically possible due to volume or adhesion issues.
• Your business has taken action to seek regulatory approval and approval is pending.

Labeling regulations

Most countries regulate food labeling to ensure packaging includes key information (such as the ingredients, weight, and safety advice) and that all information is accurate, easy to read and understand, and is not misleading in any way. However, labeling requirements will differ according to the country, the product and ingredients, and the regulating agency. It is important to understand all legal obligations for labeling and ensure you are complying with all appropriate regulations. If you have any questions, please get in touch. We look forward to working with you on your labels.

For more information—or if you’d like to submit a digital copy of your label for approval—contact info@agreenerworld.org.

Author: Katie Amos is AGW’s Director of Communications and Outreach

Originally published in the Spring 2024 issue of AGW’s Sustainable Farming magazine.