Supporting study
The aim of this report is to provide the Joint Research Centre (JRC) with insights into the criteria existing in the MSs of the European Union for public catering contracts. This information is derived from a comprehensive review of literature, a survey, and targeted interviews. The report highlights that the most frequently identified criteria are environmental (present in 56% of countries) that include considerations such as organic and social criteria, mainly on nutritional aspects (observed in 59% of countries). However, there are notable disparities in the formulation of these criteria and the specified levels to be achieved.
Furthermore, the report outlines various methods of implementation and control, shedding light on key success factors. It is evident that mandatory criteria prove more effective than voluntary approaches. Recommendations from authorities include providing individual support for purchasers (in the form of a helpdesk) or offering practical examples of clauses or contracts.
Among the priorities identified for future potential criteria, the results contained in this report emphasize reducing meat consumption, combating food waste, and increasing the proportion of organic products served. The European Commission must consider how potential future criteria could be implemented, recognizing the significant variation in the maturity of countries on these issues. In conclusion, before setting any potential future criteria, the Commission will need to consider the subjects to be included, the sectors concerned, the role of the MSs in defining them, and the timetable. The study proposes initial analyses of the most relevant criteria in terms of the capacity for harmonization at European level, potential additional costs, stakeholder expectations, and legal feasibility. Next steps of this work could include further consultation with stakeholders, considering production capacities, and addressing the specific challenges faced by each MS.
LERMANT Aurore;
LAPORTE-RIOU Carla;
PRAUDEL Manon;
COLLINEAU François;
LATOUCHE Anna;
2024-12-05
Publications Office of the European Union
JRC139977
978-92-68-22236-2 (online),
OP KJ-01-24-161-EN-N (online),
https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC139977,
10.2760/5240811 (online),
