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Foodwatch e.V. - Consumer Protection in the Food Industry

About Us

Foodwatch e.V. is an international non-governmental organization (NGO) that has been advocating for consumer rights and food quality since its founding in October 2002 by former Greenpeace director Dr. Thilo Bode. Based in Berlin with additional offices in Amsterdam, Paris, Brussels, and Vienna, foodwatch operates independently of the state and the food industry.

Mission and Values

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The main mission of foodwatch is to protect consumers from misleading advertising claims and health-damaging products. The goal is for all people to have enough to eat and to afford a balanced diet without jeopardizing their health. Foodwatch demands honest food and labels, transparent manufacturing processes, and fair prices. The organization advocates for consumers to make well-informed, self-determined decisions when purchasing food[3][5].

Key Activities and Services

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Foodwatch focuses on the investigative review of packaging and advertising claims as well as uncovering possible deception attempts by the industry. The organization regularly conducts its own studies to verify whether the stated ingredients and manufacturing processes correspond to the actual conditions. Notable campaigns include the fight against mineral oil in food, the exposure of misleading advertising by companies like McDonald's and Unilever, and the monitoring of food scandals such as the acrylamide issue[1][2][3].

Sustainability Goals and Initiatives

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Foodwatch is deeply committed to sustainability and environmental protection. Sustainability goals include reducing pesticide use in agriculture, protecting children and adolescents from harmful influences, and advocating for stricter limits on problematic ingredients. Additionally, the organization is working towards a shift in animal husbandry, particularly through the ban on the cruel tethering of cattle in Germany. Foodwatch also observes and evaluates political decisions such as agricultural policy, import and export regulations, and the protection of the environment and climate[1][4][5].

Funding and Support

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Foodwatch is funded solely by contributions and donations from over 45,000 supporting members and refrains from government grants and donations from the business sector to avoid conflicts of interest. This independent funding allows the organization to carry out its work without external influences and to focus solely on the interests of consumers[2][3][4].

Conclusion

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Foodwatch e.V. is a dedicated advocate for consumer rights in the food industry. Through independent research, exposing advertising lies, and applying political pressure, the organization works to ensure that food is safe, healthy, and honest. With its focus on transparency, quality, and fair conditions, foodwatch makes an important contribution to protecting consumers and promoting sustainable food production.

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