The App Review: AWA Food Labels Exposed

Each week we review a food related app. This week it’s AWA Food Labels Exposed – find out what the Lempert Report thought.

What it says it does: Animal Welfare Approved has produced the ‘Food Labels Exposed’ app, based on their popular print guide, to provide clear and factual definitions for the most commonly used claims and terms for the production, marketing and labeling of meat, dairy, eggs and other farmed products.

Food companies use a bewildering range of terms and claims to encourage us to buy their products. But what do they really mean – and are they even true? Sadly, many positive-sounding food labels hide the same old industrial farming systems.

Use the app to browse our list of common food labels and terms at the grocery store, restaurant, or farmers market to find out what these claims really mean – and don’t mean - so you can make informed food choices.

What it actually does: Animal Welfare Approved audits, certifies and supports farmers raising their animals according to the highest welfare standards, outdoors on pasture or range – the app allows you to check label claims at your fingertips. For instance, did you know that terms like “Natural” or “Free Range” or “Antibiotic-Free” have absolutely nothing to do with real animal welfare or environmental sustainability? The app clearly defines various terms used on meat, dairy, eggs and other farmed products.

How useful is the information for target audience?: For those looking for truly sustainable and humanely sourced foods this app is excellent. It provides the information needed to make informed decisions when shopping for meat, poultry, eggs, dairy and more.

Ease of use: The app is very easy to use - you just search terms that are on labels and it defines them and lets you know if they are verified or just for marketing purposes.

Who would best benefit from the app?: Anyone who really wants to know what the claims mean on packages in regards to animal welfare or environmental sustainability. 

Cost: Free

Rating: 4 of 5

More info: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/awa-food-labels-exposed/id669698167?mt=8