May 10, 2023

AEON will Begin to Attach Labels Indicating the Degree of Reduction in Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Emissions from Food Products

Kana Design Image - stock.adobe.com

AEON will label and sell up to 23 items, including vegetables, from June onward. European companies are leading the way in "decarbonization labels" that inform consumers about the level of emission reductions. In Japan, guidelines for evaluation rules will be created through public-private initiatives. With the adoption of the largest supermarket supplier, the trend to visualize CO2 reduction in the food sector may spread to other retailers and food companies.

The decarbonization label is introduced since consumers' awareness of environmental considerations is now influencing their product purchases. In January, the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) surveyed 3,300 Japanese 15-69-year-olds, and 68% of the respondents answered, "I want to buy products that do not put a burden on the environment."

Of those willing to buy but haven't accepted, 52% cited "I do not know what products have the lowest environmental impact" as the reason. There were few decision-makers, and it could not capture environmentally oriented demand.

European countries and companies are leading the way in decarbonization labels. Carrefour of France and German supermarket giant Lidl sell their products with an "EcoScore" label, indicating the degree to which a food product impacts the environment.