Keywords
food law
food waste
the date of minimum durability
sustainable consumption
JEL: D18, E21, I12, K32, L66, Q01, Q18
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Abstract
In recent years, consumer interest in health, well-being, sustainability, and transparency has increased, thereby elevating the importance of the consumer’s right to information. Information about food can significantly influence decisions made by consumers. The article aims, through literature analysis, to examine the function of date marking (the date of minimum durability and the ‘use by’ date) as a tool of food-related communication, and to address the following research questions: (i) what role does date marking play in food communication, and (ii) which barriers limit the effectiveness of date marking as a tool supporting sustainable consumption? The article has a problem-oriented
character, with the analysis focusing on the interpretation of key concepts and phenomena, the identification of major directions in regulatory development related to date marking, and the presentation of their significance for consumers. The literature review was conducted as a narrative review encompassing European Union legislation, scientific opinions, key institutional reports on food waste, academic research on food-related communication, consumer behaviour, and food labelling systems, as well as selected industry reports. The study employs methods of synthesis, content interpretation, and logical reasoning. The date marking supports consumers in taking care of health, safety, and their interests as purchasers, as well as in effectively managing household food stocks. Although date marking serves a behavioural function, potentially influencing practices aimed at reducing food waste, it is not a standalone tool for promoting sustainable food consumption. To ensure the effectiveness of this mechanism, support from effective communication is required, along with improvements to the food labelling system in the area of date marking. The conclusions indicate the need for further research into improving the food labelling system in the area of date marking.
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