Quality standards for vegetables are being adjusted in the fight against food waste

Swiss vegetable growers want to set an example in the fight against food waste. New quality standards will apply from Thursday. In the future, some products with minor imperfections will also be available in stores.

For the first time since 2014, the quality standards for 65 products have been thoroughly revised, the Association of Swiss Vegetable Producers (VSGP) announced on Thursday. Tolerance for slight imperfections in vegetables is now increasing. With the adjustment of quality standards, Swiss vegetables in general should become even more sustainable.

The association of the Swiss fruit, vegetable and potato trade (Swisscofel) was convinced in the press release that consumers will welcome and accept the new standards.

By adjusting the quality standards, the industry says it is responding to various developments in recent years. It thus makes an important contribution to the implementation of the action plan of the Federal Council against food waste. The goal is to halve food losses by 2030 compared to 2017.

In addition, the industry is reducing the use of pesticides as a result of the reduction path for pesticides and nutrients. And finally, it responds to the increase in extreme weather events due to climate change.

According to a UN report, food loss and food waste are the third largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. According to the Agricultural Information Service (LID), the environmental impact of avoidable food waste in Switzerland is about half that of all private motorized transport.

Avoidable waste usually arises because the harvest does not meet strict trade rules and cannot find buyers, or due to seasonal overproduction.

According to the LID, vegetable producers welcome the new quality standards. However, they are aware that they cannot sell spoiled or gluttonous products. (oo/sda)