foodwatch

Foodwatch works to strengthen consumers' rights in the food market through various activities and services. Through independent research and analysis it informs the public about lack of safety and transparency of food products and names the parties responsible. It also mobilizes consumers through petitions, protests and lobbying efforts to encourage political decision-makers to take action. Foodwatch takes offenders to court on behalf of consumers, proposes changes in the law in areas often ignored, and exerts pressure to influence policy changes.

In 2007, foodwatch campaigned to stop the illegal trade of meat and bone meal, and called for applying the principles of EU waste legislation to animal by-products. In 2008 foodwatch commissioned the Institute for Ecological Economy Research to examine the respective contribution of conventional and organic agriculture in Germany to the greenhouse effect. The results demonstrated that considerable amounts of greenhouse gases can be eliminated in the agricultural sector. Consequently, foodwatch is calling on the agriculture sector to become part of climate change policy in Germany and at the EU level. In 2011, foodwatch published the report “The Hungermakers” to show the negative impact of capital investments in food raw commodities on food prices and the nutritional situation of people.

To guarantee absolute independence, foodwatch declines government funding and is financed solely by contributions and donations. Funding from corporations is also refused, to avoid any conflict of interest that may arise or prevent its work from being influenced.

Each year, foodwatch awards the Golden Windbag Prize for the most audacious advertising lie in the food industry. The winner is chosen by visitors to its website.