Launching the Environmental Impact Reduction Label for Dairy and Beef Products

The initiative to make the environmental impact reduction efforts in the livestock sector visible has reached a new milestone with the introduction of the "Mieru Label". This initiative aims to allow consumers to easily understand the contributions of dairy and beef production to greenhouse gas reduction through a star rating system, reflecting their environmental impact.

A Step Towards Transparency

In an age where sustainability is increasingly vital, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) has initiated a sales demonstration focusing on dairy products and beef. This is the first phase of assessing the environmental impact and showcasing it using the Mieru Label.

Through this approach, the greenhouse gas reduction efforts in the production of raw milk and beef will be evaluated using a practical calculation sheet provided by the MAFF, allowing consumers to see a clear three-star rating. This initiative not only fosters transparency but also encourages producers to adopt better practices in their operations.

Methods of Visualizing Environmental Impact

The Mieru Label's objective is to clarify the greenhouse gas reduction contributions during the production stages. Using a simplified greenhouse gas calculation sheet, it will compare emissions against regional standards and display these contributions in an easy-to-understand star rating system. Initially, this initiative will include various agricultural products, expanding to livestock by March 2026.

The MAFF's previous work on establishing a calculation sheet to determine greenhouse gas emissions per kilogram of raw milk and beef has been pivotal in pushing this project forward. The recent committee meeting in January 2026 approved the commencement of the sales demonstration, setting the stage for the first labeled products to hit the shelves.

Products and Distribution for the Sales Demonstration

The initial offerings for this sales demonstration will include products from renowned brands focusing on sustainability:

- Takanshi Environmental Three-Star Milk (Takanshi Dairy) will be available from March 25, 2026, at select retailers in the Kanto region and through their web shop.
- Food Plan Kumamoto Aso Healthy Milk (Rakuno Mothers) will be sold between April 1 and August 31, 2026, across 84 stores in Hyogo and Osaka Prefectures.
- Fresh Cheese and Soft Serve Ice Cream from Ishikawa Farm will be sold starting March 10, 2026, at their Cheese Factory in Miyazaki.
- Sustainable Wagyu Beef from Jukuyou Farm will also feature in this sales demonstration in various stores across Kyoto and Osaka.
- Other cattle products will be sold at various locations in Osaka starting March 15, 2026.

These trials will not only provide consumers with eco-friendly choices but will also allow producers to receive direct feedback on operational challenges and potential improvements.

Future Directions

As this initiative unfolds, there will be continuous collaboration with producers to refine the Mieru Label and its application. Stakeholders interested in learning more about the environmental impact reduction efforts are encouraged to reach out to the MAFF for further information.

Further updates regarding product listings, participating stores, and new collaborations will be provided regularly, highlighting the growth of this crucial initiative in promoting sustainable agriculture practices in Japan.

For more information on the initiative's details, visit the MAFF’s official pages regarding the environmental impact reduction in livestock products and their labeling guidelines.