Towards an EU sustainable food-labelling framework: enhancing the complexity of the food system through a public and private mixed approach

This research investigates the role of a harmonised EU sustainable food label at the EU level, analysing both public and private regulation. The study explores the current EU legal framework on food information to consumers and voluntary sustainability standards (VSSs) developed by private actors, tracing their evolution and limitations in protecting consumers’ rights.  The analysis emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary and participatory approaches in shaping effective sustainable policies, in particular, the potentiality of alternative certification systems in empowering consumers towards sustainable food systems.