The Score, explained
How do we calculate the visible scores? What methodological approach did we choose and why?
In order to uncover the environmental impacts of foods the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) method was chosen. By modelling emissions and resource use throughout a product’s life cycle, LCA provides a comprehensive view of impact categories across categories such as climate change, water use and eutrophication.
In need of publicy-accessible data we chose the French Agribalyse database to serve as our data source. Although this choice does not allow the data to be country-specific, it is the most extensive database for food products available. As part of the project a dynamic backend, the Food Impact Toolkit, which allows other, more counry-specific data to be imported and considered, was developed and can be used for future improvments. For more info please follow the link at the bottom of this page.
Our chosen method is mostly compliant with the European Commission’s Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) approach. Adaptations with the aim of improving the assessment of biodiversity were made. For more info please follow the link at the bottom of this page.
What characterizes Impacts of Food
Comprehensive Environmental Assessment
Using Life-Cycle-Assessment, Impacts of Food calculates the environmental impacts of around 2.700 food items, empowering consumers to make decisions that are informed and within planetary boundaries.
Uncovering the Impacts on Biodiversity
As pioneers in the field, Impacts of Food has used an innovative method to calculate the impacts on biodiversity, based on an interdisciplinary strategy, including field testing and the use of solid data sets to ensure the accuracy and reliability of our calculations.
Simplified Communication
The user-friendly presentation of the score allows consumers to effortlessly process the information provided, enabling them to make well-informed choices and develop dietary patterns within planetary boundaries.
Determining the environmental footprint of food products
Select a score and learn more.
Very Light – it's a good choice!
When the Impact Score of the product is Very Light, this means that the product has a very low environmental impact.
Light – it's a good choice!
When the Impact Score of the product is Light, this means that the product has a low environmental impact.
Moderate – consume consciously.
When the Impact Score of the product is moderate, this means that the product has a moderate overall impact on the environment.
Heavy – try to consume less.
When the Impact Score of the product is Heavy, this means that the product has a high overall impact on the environment.
Very Heavy – try to avoid.
When the Impact Score of the product is Very Heavy, this means that the product has a very high impact on the environment.
Impacts to consider explained
Food waste
Food waste
The environmental impact of food includes not only the resources consumed and emissions arising during its production, processing, distribution, and consumption but also the environmental costs associated with its waste.
Food waste
Food waste can be generated at various stages of the food supply chain. Certain types of food are more prone to produce food waste due to various factors such as perishability, short shelf life, and consumer preferences.
Food waste
In South Africa, around 10 M tonnes of food are squandered annually, equivalent to a third of agricultural production in the country. A diverse array of foods is wasted by South African households including perishable items surpassing their expiration dates, leftover meals and surplus food or promotional deals. Bread, as well as fruits and vegetables are the most frequently discarded items. In South Africa, around 10 M tonnes of food are squandered annually, equivalent to a third of agricultural production in the country. A diverse array of foods is wasted by South African households including perishable items surpassing their expiration dates, leftover meals and surplus food or promotional deals. Bread, as well as fruits and vegetables are the most frequently discarded items.
Food waste
In South Africa, around 10 M tonnes of food are squandered annually, equivalent to a third of agricultural production in the country. A diverse array of foods is wasted by South African households including perishable items surpassing their expiration dates, leftover meals and surplus food or promotional deals. Bread, as well as fruits and vegetables are the most frequently discarded items.
Food waste
Consumers can prevent wastage by planning their meals, storing food properly, creatively using leftovers, supporting food redistribution initiatives, and raising awareness about the impacts of food waste.
Overfishing
Overfishing
Several types of seafood contribute to overfishing, where the rate of fishing exceeds the natural reproduction capacity of the species, leading to population declines.
Overfishing
The consequences extend beyond the depletion of specific species, affecting the overall balance and health of aquatic environments. This clearly emphasizes the need for sustainable fisheries management to mitigate such negative impacts.
Overfishing
Overfishing in South Africa is a critical issue due to its rich marine biodiversity and the economic dependency of coastal communities on fishing. The depletion of common fish populations such as certain hake species, yellowtail, tuna, and rock lobster threatens livelihoods, exacerbates poverty, and disrupts marine ecosystems and food webs.
Overfishing
Consumers can help combat overfishing by making informed seafood choices, opting for sustainably sourced fish and supporting fisheries with eco-certifications.
Food Safety
Food Safety
Prioritizing food safety is a crucial step towards creating more sustainable and environmentally friendly food systems.
Food Safety
Food safety practices such as safe food handling, storing and preparing as well as monitoring and traceability contribute to lowering the environmental footprint by minimizing waste, reducing resource use, and preventing environmental pollution.
Food Safety
In South Africa, consumers must prioritize food safety amidst challenges like load shedding and warm temperatures, impacting both processed and unprocessed foods.
Food Safety
While processed foods may pose extra risks due to manufacturing complexity, additives and preservatives, and the potential for cross-contamination during production, proper storage and adherence to handling practices are vital to prevent spoilage and bacterial growth, especially during power outages.
Food Safety
Consumers should adhere to recommended food handling practices and expiration dates to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Organic Production
Organic Production
Organic production is generally recognized for its potential to reduce the environmental impacts of food as organic farming practices typically prioritize soil health, biodiversity, and the limited use of synthetic agricultural inputs.
Organic Production
Challenges may arise due to the potential for increased land use and lower yields per acre as compared to conventional farming. The overall environmental benefits of organic farming often depend on factors such as efficient management practices, local conditions and sustainable supply chain strategies.
Organic Production
In South Africa, while there may not be a comprehensive national organic policy, consumers can still benefit from purchasing organic products, which are not only environmentally friendly but also promote healthy diets.
Organic Production
Various organizations and certification bodies provide organic certification for agricultural goods, ensuring compliance with common standards such as those set by the South African Organic Sector Organisation (SAOSO), offering consumers access to high-quality goods that meet stringent organic criteria.
Want more facts of our methodological approach?
A more detailed description can be found in the Data and Usage Guidelines.
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