The European Commission, alongside industry stakeholders, launched on 5 July 2021 the EU Code of Conduct on Responsible Food Business and Marketing Practices, one of the first deliverables under the Commission’s Farm to Fork Strategy.

The Code includes a set of 7 aspirational objectives, each with specific targets and a list of indicative, tangible and measurable actions, which actually contribute to a food environment that makes healthy and sustainable food choices easier.

Commitments may take the form of a declaration of engagement and actions in major areas, together with an agreement to move towards higher levels of ambition within a defined timeframe. For the more advanced who wish to make greater commitments, the Code also includes a framework for more ambitious, measurable actions.

Main relevant links related to the Code:

• EU Code of Conduct

• Factsheet

• Overview of signatories

• Presentation logos of the signatories

• Individual pledges

• Motivations

• Complementary instruments and policies

• Task Force members

Members of the Code can access specific features under the Transition Pathway Stakeholder Support Website, by becoming a member of the platform.

Related legislation:

The legal basis for the Code of Conduct can be found both in the Farm to Fork Strategy (2020) and the Vision on agriculture and food (2025).

Communication COM/2020/381 A Farm to Fork Strategy for a fair, healthy and environmentally-friendly food system.

Communication COM/2025/75 A Vision for Agriculture and Food Shaping together an attractive farming and agri-food sector for future generations.