Reading text

Sustainability certifications, such as MSC, ASC and organic labels, are playing an increasingly important role in the bivalve mollusc markets. These certification schemes significantly influence consumer perception and the market value of products.

In France and Ireland, consumers show a strong awareness of sustainability, and certifications are a key factor in purchasing decisions. In these countries, certified products can access the higher-end markets.

Fig. 26 - Type of international certifications: constraints and solutions

In Italy and Spain, awareness is growing, especially among younger and more tech-savvy consumers. In Greece, the potential is high, but domestic demand is still limited.

Organic certifications are particularly relevant for bivalve molluscs, as these products are already farmed in a natural and sustainable way. However, certification makes it possible to formalise and effectively communicate these characteristics to the consumer, who, in the absence of this, would have to know the farming method and its characteristics in order to understand the product's quality characteristics.

From an economic point of view, the adoption of certifications entails additional costs, but it can generate benefits in terms of access to new markets and an increase in the value of the product. It is also important to consider the risk of greenwashing and the need to ensure the credibility of certifications. Consumers are increasingly demanding transparency and verifiability.