The Global Products Expo, set to take place from June 26–28, 2025, at the New Jersey Expo Center, is where innovation meets compliance. As the food and beverage industry becomes more international, the demand for trusted, recognizable food certification is at an all-time high. Today’s global consumers aren’t just looking for products that taste good—they’re looking for products that align with their values, dietary needs, and cultural expectations.
Whether you’re a startup breaking into new markets or a seasoned global brand preparing for the Food and Beverage Expo USA, understanding the significance of food certification can be the difference between shelf success and regulatory setbacks.
Why Food Certifications Matter More Than Ever
Food certifications serve as the bridge between trust and transparency in a crowded marketplace. For consumers, a label like “Certified Organic” or “Halal Certified” is more than just a stamp—it’s a promise. It communicates that the brand adheres to a set of principles, whether those relate to environmental sustainability, ethical sourcing, religious practices, or food safety.
The Rise of the Conscious Consumer
Today’s buyers are informed, intentional, and in many cases, vocal. According to recent studies, 66% of global consumers are willing to pay more for certified sustainable or ethically sourced products. In emerging markets, this figure climbs even higher. Certifications aren’t just for niche audiences—they’re becoming the standard, especially in the food and beverage sector.
The Core Certifications to Know
1. Organic Certification
Organic certification assures that the food was grown without synthetic pesticides, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), or artificial fertilizers. In the U.S., this means compliance with USDA Organic standards. In the EU, it means meeting European Commission regulations. For brands planning to exhibit at global trade shows or the Food and Beverage Expo USA, dual certification may be necessary to meet both local and international expectations.
2. Halal Certification
Halal certification verifies that products comply with Islamic dietary laws. This certification is crucial for accessing markets across the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and increasingly, Western countries with growing Muslim populations. It’s important to note that Halal certification is often tied not only to ingredients but also to the preparation process, packaging, and supply chain.
3. Non-GMO Certification
The Non-GMO Project label has become a prominent symbol in North America for products that do not contain genetically modified organisms. With public scrutiny of GMOs still high, particularly in the U.S. and Europe, this certification can significantly impact consumer choice and retailer acceptance.
4. Kosher Certification
Kosher certification signals adherence to Jewish dietary law. Like Halal, this certification involves detailed oversight, including manufacturing processes, ingredients, and even packaging methods. It also has broad consumer appeal beyond religious requirements, often associated with high standards of cleanliness and quality.
5. Gluten-Free, Vegan, and Allergen-Free Certifications
These certifications target health-conscious and dietary-restricted consumers. As food sensitivities rise and wellness trends continue, having certifications like Certified Gluten-Free or Vegan Certified can open up additional retail opportunities.
Certification as a Competitive Advantage at Trade Shows
Trade shows like the Food and Beverage Expo USA are not just about product visibility—they’re about credibility. When buyers, distributors, and international regulators walk the expo floor, they’re scanning for trust signals. Food certifications are one of the most powerful and immediate signals a product can offer.
Stand Out in Crowded Categories
In categories like snacks, beverages, or pantry staples, where dozens of similar products may compete for attention, having a visible, verifiable certification can make your booth more attractive. It can also facilitate faster conversations with buyers, especially those sourcing for health food stores, specialty retailers, or global supply chains.
Anticipate Global Retail Requirements
Retailers across regions are raising their compliance bars. For instance, Whole Foods Market in the U.S. may prioritize Non-GMO or Organic products, while Carrefour in the Middle East may look for Halal-certified SKUs. Exhibiting at a global event without these credentials—or at least a plan to obtain them—can limit opportunities.
Navigating the Certification Process: What You Need to Know
Getting certified isn’t just about paperwork—it’s a strategic decision that affects your sourcing, manufacturing, and marketing. Here are the key considerations:
1. Select Recognized Certifying Bodies
Make sure the organization providing your certification is internationally recognized. For example:
- USDA for Organic (U.S.)
- Ecocert (EU and international)
- IFANCA or Halal Food Authority for Halal
- The Non-GMO Project for North America
- Orthodox Union (OU) for Kosher
Check which certifiers are accepted in your target export markets.
2. Understand the Auditing Process
Most certifications require annual audits, including inspections of your manufacturing facility, sourcing protocols, and documentation practices. Prepare your team in advance to ensure compliance.
3. Incorporate Certification into Your Packaging Strategy
Certification logos must be properly placed and formatted according to each certifier’s guidelines. Make sure your design team is aware of space requirements and print resolution needs.
4. Budget for Certification
Certification can be expensive, particularly for small producers. Consider this a marketing and compliance investment. Costs include the application fee, annual inspections, testing, and possible reformulation of products.
Marketing Your Certifications at the Expo
Having a certification is only effective if it’s seen. Here’s how to highlight it effectively at trade shows like the Global Products Expo and the Food and Beverage Expo USA:
- Display logos prominently on booth signage, product packaging, and digital displays.
- Create brochures or infographics explaining what each certification means and why it matters.
- Include certification status in your press kits or buyer guides.
- Train your staff to explain the significance of your certifications in plain language, especially for non-native English speakers or international buyers.
Future of Food Certifications: Trends to Watch
As consumer expectations evolve, food certification will continue to adapt. Here are key trends shaping the next five years:
- Digital Traceability: Blockchain-powered certifications that allow consumers to trace the origin of ingredients.
- Environmental Certifications: Look for growth in carbon-neutral and regenerative farming certifications.
- AI-Based Auditing: Artificial intelligence is beginning to streamline certification monitoring and fraud detection.
- Unified Global Standards: There’s growing demand for harmonized global certification standards to simplify international trade.
Final Thoughts
In today’s global food economy, certifications are not optional—they’re essential. Whether you’re showcasing artisan jams or plant-based protein powders, aligning with consumer expectations around transparency, ethics, and quality is crucial.
At the Global Products Expo, taking place from June 26–28, 2025, at the New Jersey Expo Center, and the Food and Beverage Expo USA, certified brands will be the ones opening doors to new markets, partnerships, and long-term consumer loyalty.
If your product has something to prove, let the certification label do the talking.
