EIT Food LCA Methodology

This publication of the EIT Food (LCA) methodology is devoted to the advancement and critical examination of a scientific method that seeks to determine the life cycle impact of a food or beverage product. It seeks to provide all involved stakeholders, across the food value chain, with a robust, clearly defined approach that can be applied, tested, and refined across diverse contexts whilst at the same time caring for usability and facilitation of application. By emphasising methodological clarity and reproducibility, we aim to contribute to a body of work that is not only innovative, but also reliable and verifiable.

This methodology is the second iteration of the previous Foundation Earth methodology that was the first of its kind to go public and open source in the space of making food claims related to environmental impact.  It was also developed with the experience, knowledge and insights of hundreds of stakeholders from across the value chain, including NGOs, policy makers, researchers, impact experts, industry actors from farm-to-table as well as broader specialists who work tirelessly on international harmonisation for a standard that is scientifically sound as well as drives on consumer choice and behaviour. 

We hope that this publication will serve as a valuable resource for all these actors and more, globally, to test, learn and drive not only results, but improved awareness and knowledge. Researchers, practitioners, and students alike - supporting the design of rigorous studies, encouraging critical reflection on existing methods, and fostering innovation grounded in sound scientific principles.

An accompanying excel document is also available which includes specific details of data requirements at each life cycle stage.  If you would like access to support implementation of LCA assessments based on this EIT Food (LCA) methodology, please e-mail nicola.organ@eitfood.eu.