Table 3

Perceptions associated with certifications

CertificationThemePerceptions
USAJapan
OrganicSustainabilityEnvironmental (medium)Environmental (high)
“(…) it just means they use natural pesticides instead of synthetic ones, and in many ways synthetic pesticides work better.”“It focuses on sustainability by avoiding dependence on chemical fertilisers and preserving the natural environment.”
CredibilityLow credibilityHigh credibility
“(…) USDA Organic failed us two years ago when they approved products without really defining who can use the label.”“I usually check for JAS standards when I look at Japanese products.”
RainforestSustainabilityEnvironmental (high)Environmental (high)
“I appreciate the fact that this company highlights that it’s going to promote biodiversity in those areas.”“(…) they give the impression of being environmentally friendly”
Social (high)Social (high)
“I like what it represents when it talks about better working conditions.”“I feel better using products that are made properly and pay fair wages.”
CredibilityHigh credibilityHigh credibility
“I think Rainforest Alliance is a legitimate company.”“I think it's a reliable and good brand.”
FairtradeSustainabilitySocial (high)Social (high)
“(…) it's really important to support farmers, or at least the community.”“Ensuring adequate remuneration for producers means they can continue their farming activities properly.”
CredibilityHigh credibilityHigh credibility
“(…) with the UN, fair trade is a really important issue for them, so it's not something you can use unless there really is fair trade behind it..”“I think the Fairtrade seal in the middle looks reliable. The text is clear and the icon is simple.”
Olivares VivosSustainabilityEnvironmental (high)Environmental (high)
“I actually like what it says more than any of the others, like promoting and conserving biodiversity, improving soil health and conserving the ecosystem.”“The idea of preserving ecosystems also seemed very attractive to me.”
CredibilityHigh credibilityHigh credibility
“(…) I really like it because it's not as broad as the others, which are good for promoting fair prices or environmental sustainability, but they're too general for me.”“(…) it gave me the impression that it is made in a proper environment with safe materials.”
PDOSustainabilityEnvironmental (low)Environmental (low)
“(…) the company just … seems to be saying, we care more about the product and the product quality itself; we don't care about anything else.”“(…) the colours are really striking. At first glance, it doesn't make me think it's environmentally friendly.”
CredibilityHigh credibility 
“(…) unless I see this stamp, I'm not sure if it is actually from there or if it's something made up.”
Source(s): Authors’ own work

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