The EU Organic Logo identifies foods produced in accordance with the organic standards of the European Union. It stands for environmentally friendly farming and sustainable production. The use of chemically synthetic pesticides and genetic engineering is prohibited. It also requires animal welfare standards and regular inspections.

The Fair for Life label is a fair trade certification program focused on social criteria such as fair prices and good working conditions. In the food sector, it generally requires a recognized organic certification, such as the EU Organic Logo. It combines ecological standards with additional social and trade requirements. While the EU Organic label mainly covers environmental and production standards, Fair for Life expands these with binding Fair Trade criteria.

Classic organic certification (e.g. the EU Organic Logo) mainly defines ecological minimum standards, such as the ban on synthetic pesticides and genetic engineering. However, it only partially or indirectly addresses social aspects, soil health, or climate impacts. Additional standards such as Regenerative Organic Certified go further: they combine organic farming with regenerative soil management, higher animal welfare standards, and binding social criteria for workers and producers. The demand for such standards arises because many companies and consumers no longer want to be merely “less harmful” but aim to operate in a way that is actively ecologically regenerative and socially just.

Naturland is a German organic association whose standards are stricter than the official EU Organic Logo. In addition to organic farming, Naturland places strong emphasis on environmental and climate protection, animal welfare, and social responsibility. Its standards apply internationally and also cover areas such as fisheries and forestry.

Naturland Fair complements organic certification with binding Fair Trade criteria. These include fair prices, long-term trading relationships, and social rights for producers and workers. It combines ecological standards with additional social and economic requirements.

USDA Organic is the official organic label of the United States and is awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture.

It identifies products produced according to the standards of the National Organic Program (NOP). The use of synthetic pesticides, genetic engineering, and artificial fertilizers is largely prohibited. Animal welfare standards and regular inspections are also required. The label applies to food, animal feed, and in some cases cosmetic products in the United States.