In the modern retail environment, proper separation of plant-based and animal-based products is increasingly important, not only due to legal regulations but also because of rising consumer awareness about health, sustainability, and ethical aspects of food consumption. Additionally, we are witnessing an inevitable revolution in food production, involving technologies that use genetically modified organisms for food production. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, where the tradition of the food industry is rich and diverse, organizing and presenting these products properly can significantly impact the shopping experience and consumer satisfaction.
The proper separation of plant-based and animal-based products is not only a matter of health and ethical considerations regarding dietary habits but also a question of protecting and realizing consumer rights related to receiving essential information about food. Food information regulations set standards for food labeling, including general rules applicable to all types of food in specific circumstances or certain categories, as well as rules that apply only to specific types of food. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, as in the European Union, there are various regulations governing the labeling obligations of specific products.
One of the main goals of food product labeling is to provide consumers with necessary information about food. Food information includes any information made available to consumers through labels, accompanying material, or any other means, including modern technological tools or verbal communication. Accordingly, food information, in a broader sense, encompasses the proper positioning of products in retail establishments.
Providing food information serves the high level of health protection and consumer interests. It enables consumers to be informed and to use food safely, particularly considering health, economic, environmental, social, and ethical factors.
When food information regulations require mandatory food information, it pertains to information falling into one of the following categories:
a) information about the types, composition, properties, or other characteristics of food
b) information related to consumer health protection and safe use of food, particularly concerning ingredients that may be harmful to the health of specific consumer groups, expiration dates, storage, safe use, and health impacts, including risks and consequences associated with harmful and unsafe food consumption
c) nutritional information, enabling consumers, including those with special dietary needs, to make informed choices.
Food information must be such that it does not mislead the end consumer and the food business operator, particularly regarding:
a) the characteristics of the food, including its nature, type, properties, composition, quantity, durability, origin, or production method
b) attributing effects or properties that the product does not possess
c) implying special characteristics when all similar foods possess these characteristics, especially highlighting the presence or absence of certain ingredients or nutrients
d) the appearance, description, or pictorial representation that may suggest the presence of certain food or ingredient, while in reality, a naturally present component or a commonly used ingredient is replaced with another.
Food information must be accurate, clear, and understandable to consumers.
Given the above, mixing plant-based and animal-based products (for example, plant-based milk with animal milk) without clear labeling and provision of necessary information can lead to misleading consumers regarding the characteristics, nature, and properties of the food, which may be considered a violation of consumer rights.
Beyond legal obligations, separating plant-based and animal-based products offers practical advantages. Consumers often seek specific products due to dietary allergies, vegetarian diets, or ethical reasons. When these products are clearly separated, consumers find it easier to make decisions, eliminating confusion about the nature and origin of the products. Additionally, the visual presentation of products is a form of information for consumers. A best practice example could be the use of colored shelves – for instance, green for plant-based products and red for animal-based products. This strategy not only simplifies navigation for consumers but can also encourage sales by attracting attention and clearly communicating the type of product.
In conclusion, the separation of plant-based and animal-based products in stores in Bosnia and Herzegovina is not only a matter of consumer experience and promoting sustainability in the food sector but also compliance with legal regulations. Proper organization and education can significantly influence consumer satisfaction and choice, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle and ultimately fulfilling legal requirements for providing consumers with essential information about food products.
Author: Igor Letica
E-mail: [email protected]
