THE WHAT? The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has announced that it will scrutinise ‘green’ claims made by Unilever via a formal investigation after an initial review uncovered some ‘concerning practices’.

THE DETAILS The probe will examine whether the FMCG manufacturer is overstating its eco-friendly credentials, using vague and broad claims, unclear statements about recyclability and images and logos designed to make products appear more environmentally friendly than they are.

THE WHY? Sarah Cardell, Chief Executive of the CMA, explains, “Essentials like detergent, kitchen spray, and toiletries are the kinds of items you put in your supermarket basket every time you shop. More and more people are trying to do their bit to help protect the environment, but we’re worried many are being misled by so-called ‘green’ products that aren’t what they seem.

“So far, the evidence we’ve seen has raised concerns about how Unilever presents certain products as environmentally friendly. We’ll be drilling down into these claims to see if they measure up. If we find they’re greenwashing, we’ll take action to make sure shoppers are protected.”