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Food Certifications 101

What to look for this Earth Day

April 7, 2023  |   by Staff Writer

Earth Day is a day that reminds us of the importance of taking care of our planet and the impact that our actions have on the environment. At Metropolitan Market, we believe that it’s our responsibility to provide options that make it easy for our guests to make sustainable and ethical choices when it comes to the food. That’s why we’re proud to offer a wide variety of products that are certified by some of the most respected organizations in the food industry, but it can be a lot to track and truly understand what each means.

usda certified organic products

USDA Organic

Supporting Environmental Sustainability

One of the certifications that you are more than likely are aware of, and see most commonly in grocery stores, is USDA Organic. This certification is given to products that have been grown and processed according to strict federal guidelines, without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. When choosing USDA Organic products, you can be sure that you are supporting farmers who are committed to protecting the environment and producing food that is free from harmful chemicals. When it comes to our produce department, our selection weighs heavily on the organic side, but never without sacrificing the taste and quality that meet our standards.

Non-GMO Project Verified

Giving Guests a Choice

Non-GMO Project Verified is a certification that is given to products that have been independently verified to not contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs). As more and more studies and media raise concerns about the potential health and environmental risks associated with GMOs, we believe it’s important to give our guests the option to choose non-GMO products.

non gmo products
rainforest alliance products

Rainforest Alliance Certified

Protecting Biodiversity

We also offer a variety of products that are Rainforest Alliance Certified. This certification is given to products that have been grown on farms that meet rigorous standards for environmental and social sustainability. By choosing Rainforest Alliance Certified products, our guests are supporting farmers who are committed to protecting biodiversity, conserving natural resources, and improving the lives of their workers.

Fair Trade Certified

Promoting Economic Justice

Fair Trade Certified products are grown and produced by farmers and workers who are paid a fair price for their labor and provided with safe working conditions. By choosing Fair Trade products, our guests are supporting farmers and workers who are committed to improving their own livelihoods and the communities in which they live.

fair trade certified products
marine steward certifications products

Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified

Sustainable Seafood

We also have a wide range of products that are Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified. This certification is given to seafood that come from sustainable wild-capture fisheries that meet the environmental standard of the Marine Stewardship Council. By choosing MSC certified seafood, you can be sure that you are supporting sustainable fishing practices and protecting marine ecosystems.

At Metropolitan Market, we believe that every purchase is an opportunity to make a positive impact on the world. By offering a wide variety of products that are certified by organizations that are committed to protecting the environment and promoting social and economic justice, we hope to make it easy for you to make choices that align with your values. On this Earth Day, and every day, we pledge to continue working to bring you the best selection.

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