Let’s Be Careful Not to Greenwash Regenerative Agriculture
Food companies like to use descriptors such as “non-GMO”, “gluten-free”, “humane certified” and numerous labels to differentiate their products in the marketplace. These often follow consumer trends, usually initiated by lobbyists for environmental, animal welfare, nutrition and health groups.
They can also be considered greenwashing when they are used incorrectly or fraudulently.
The latest trend appears to be regenerative agriculture, although it has yet to have a clear descriptor, for food product packaging at least. But regardless, investments being made indicate a growing interest.
An example is the recent announcement that fast food giant McDonald’s has formed a partnership with McCain Foods to invest $1 million in regenerative soil education and practices for Canadian potato production. They’ve set up a potato farming fund to help 130 of McCain’s potato growers adopt regenerative soil practices through cost-share grant applications over the next year.