Consumers Lebanon is a nationwide organization NGO working in the defense and promotion of consumer rights and contributing in updating, improving and enforcing the laws and decrees related to consumers right.
since its establishment in 1998, is a full member of consumer international (CI) [1] and Arabe union of consumer protection, It aims to build up consumer awareness through trainings, transparency and consumer information, such as with the publication of its monthly Consumers’ Newsletter, as well as leaflets, brochures, posters, exhibitions, and interviews.
In the area of food rights, it works extensively to campaign on issues of food safety and quality, pollution, pesticides, drinkable water and the use of additives and colorants in food, it also tests foods for presence of illegal industrial dyes and water for safety. It provides support to municipalities, training workers on food safety control and monitoring markets through a specialized volunteer force from the organization through the department of food safety and inspection that established in 2006. On food pricing and affordability, it established a quarterly consumer price index in 2006 and campaigns to limit price increases through routine daily inspections of markets. Its actions have led to updating and improvement of consumer protection legislation [2] and it is lobbying to pass a Food Safety Law, and a resolution to prohibit the use of fluorine in salt. Since 2003 it has run a hotline for consumers to report complaints and it continues to spread awareness to build a culture of consumer rights and responsibilities among consumers. Consumers Lebanon participates in international and Arab forums and sits on a number of national committees, participating in meetings of the National Codex Committee in the Ministry of Agriculture and the committee of organic agriculture as well as with the national Salt Committee. It raises awareness on areas of food safety concerns, such as the risks of pesticides and the importance and legislation of organic agriculture, posting widely on its website many topics of research it has carried out related to food safety, consumer rights, misleading advertising, as well as health and legal guidelines issued by the association. It is campaigning for the use of a “Quality Seal” to be affixed to the outer envelope of goods and food products to show they meet the health conditions and standards adopted by the organization.
Since its inception thirteen years ago, Consumers Lebanon has established a strong relationship based on trust and integrity with various Parliamentary Commissions, Ministries, International Organizations, including the European Union, the UNIDO, the FAO,WHO the World Bank, Amideast, USAid, as well as all country members of Consumers International around the world. Furthermore, Consumers Lebanon has close ties with Economic Associations, Syndicates and the media. We firmly believe that a triangular cooperation between Lebanese institutions, interested parties and Consumers Lebanon is a dynamic process that will ultimately promote economic and social development.
Role in Bridging Technology, Communities, and Sustainable Food Systems in the Mediterranean
Consumers Lebanon (CONL) is a civil society organization with more than a decade of experience in promoting sustainable consumption, environmental awareness, and consumer rights in Lebanon. Through its long-standing work with communities, municipalities, universities, and NGOs, CONL has developed strong expertise in awareness raising, stakeholder engagement, and translating complex technical and policy issues into accessible, action-oriented knowledge. Within the FUSION project, CONL plays a strategic role in ensuring that technological innovations to reduce food loss and waste (FLW) are socially relevant, culturally adapted, and effectively disseminated among local stakeholders.
As a partner in this European-funded Mediterranean initiative, Consumers Lebanon acts as a bridge between research institutions and society. While universities and technical partners focus on developing and optimizing innovative processing technologies, CONL ensures that these solutions respond to real needs on the ground, are understandable to end users, and are accepted by communities, farmers, processors, and consumers.
We are confident that such positive actions will contribute to spreading the practice of democracy in Lebanon and set forth an exemplary model for other countries in the region to follow suit.
Co-design of Solutions
CONL will actively participate in the co-creation of project methodologies and interventions, ensuring that proposed innovations are socially relevant, culturally appropriate, and responsive to the needs of Mediterranean communities. Through stakeholder consultations and participatory approaches, CONL will integrate consumer perspectives into the design phase.
2. Pilot Implementation and Field Testing
Leveraging its strong network with municipalities, markets, and local communities, CONL will support the implementation of pilot actions in Lebanon. This includes testing innovative technologies, tools, or practices aimed at reducing food loss and waste, improving food safety systems, or enhancing supply chain efficiency.
3. Awareness Raising and Capacity Building
CONL will lead communication, dissemination, and training activities targeting consumers, farmers, food processors, and local authorities. This includes developing tailored awareness campaigns, organizing workshops, and producing educational materials to promote behavioral change and adoption of sustainable practices.
4. Policy Dialogue and Advocacy
Building on its experience in influencing national legislation, CONL will contribute to policy analysis and advocacy efforts. It will facilitate dialogue between stakeholders and policymakers, support the development of policy recommendations, and promote alignment with national and regional strategies.
5. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Social Impact Assessment
CONL will contribute to assessing the social acceptance, economic feasibility, and environmental impact of project interventions. It will help define indicators related to consumer behavior, awareness levels, and community engagement, ensuring that project outcomes are measurable and scalable.