EU / JRC: Publication of a guide dedicated to the sustainable procurement of food by public bodies

Organic farming, sustainable agricultural practices, fair and ethical products, sustainable fish, animal welfare, prevention of food waste, short supply chains; these are some of the criteria for a sustainable public food procurement, as outlined in Joint Research Centre (JRC) report, named "Criteria for Sustainable Public Procurement to achieve healthy and sustainable meals" published on 16/10/2025.

"It aims to achieve healthy and sustainable meals in public institutions, from schools to public workplaces and hospitals. Though not binding, the criteria are intended to help national, regional, and local authorities to improve the sustainability of the food system and strategically use public procurement of food to address environmental, social, health, and economic considerations, including animal welfare and diets", announces the JRC.

The shift to a diet following nutritional guidelines can benefit both the environment and health. The criteria are associated with certification schemes and declarations, including at the national and local levels, to help actors implement the…