Сертификационните схеми в хранителния сектор - инструмент на устойчиво производство (Certification scheme in food sector - instrument for sustainable production)

The food industry has been seen as one of the most successful sectors in Bulgaria with potential to growth. At the same time agriculture and food industry have had large negative effect on the environment. For reduction of the potential harmful environmental impact caused by agricultural and food sector it is time to transform into a sustainable production. Certification schemes are one of the most common policy instruments used for promoting sustainable production and consumption. A total 90 producers in food sector were asked about motivation for certification, the challenges and outcomes of certification. The survey provides information on existing certification schemes (system certification and products certification) among companies in the food sector in Bulgaria.