Over the past decade, organic labels have become a symbol of responsible consumption. For many consumers and companies, switching to organic products is seen as an effective response to environmental and health challenges linked to food production. However, this simplified view hides a more complex reality.
While organic farming represents progress in certain areas, it is not sufficient to address the structural problems of today’s food system. The real urgency lies in changing the system, not just the label.
Organic food: real progress with clear limits
Organic agriculture reduces the use of synthetic pesticides and promotes practices that are generally more respectful of soils and ecosystems. It contributes to local biodiversity and responds to growing demand for healthier food.
However, industrial organic production often replicates the same patterns as conventional agriculture. Large-scale monocultures, long supply chains, heavy reliance on imports and high carbon footprints remain common, even under organic certification.
The limits of a label-driven approach
Focusing exclusively on labels creates the illusion of progress while leaving the foundations of the food system unchanged. A product can be certified organic and still contribute to deforestation, water overuse or social inequality.
Labels are useful tools, but they often assess isolated criteria rather than the full environmental, social and economic impact of food systems.
Why the food system needs systemic change
The real challenge is to transform the entire food system, from production to consumption. This means rethinking how food is grown, processed, distributed and consumed.
A sustainable food system prioritizes short supply chains, crop diversity, territorial resilience and fair compensation for farmers. It also involves reducing food waste and encouraging more moderate and responsible consumption patterns.
Changing the system requires shifts in agricultural policies, value chains and the economic models that shape global agribusiness.
The role of businesses and policymakers
Businesses play a crucial role in driving this transition. Going beyond organic means embedding environmental, social and governance principles throughout the supply chain.
This includes supporting agroecology, building long-term partnerships with producers, ensuring transparency and reducing overall carbon footprints. Policymakers must also create enabling frameworks to support systemic change.
Conclusion
Organic food is not an illusion in itself, but it becomes problematic when presented as a complete solution. In the face of climate, social and food crises, changing labels is no longer enough. What is urgently needed is a deep transformation of the food system to make it fairer, more resilient and truly sustainable.
