Food Companies Getting Certified As “Clean Label,” Despite Lack Of A Definition

As the “clean” eating trend gathers momentum  in the U.S., a web-based food ingredients tracking initiative has evolved into a certification program. The “Go Clean Label Certified” program, however, lacks a clear legal definition of what constitutes “clean” ingredients. The website lists ingredients that big food companies – so-called “influencers” – have been removing from their products. The founders hope to eventually meet with key food brands and grocery chains to develop an objective definition of clean label. A few brands have gone through a certification process which involves filling out an inquiry form, signing a license agreement, paying license fees, and then undergoing a product evaluation. Approved companies can then stick the Go Clean Label Certified logo on their packaging, website and marketing materials. [Image Credit: ©   Go Clean Label]