The sneaky scam spotted by 60 Millions in supermarket aisles

When you’re shopping at your local market or supermarket, it’s easy to assume that you’re buying fresh, local products that support local farmers. But what if I told you that you could be falling for a sneaky scam, one that’s deceiving even the most well-intentioned buyers? It turns out that some of the products you think are local might actually have traveled quite a long way before reaching your basket. Here’s the lowdown on this fraud and how you can avoid it.

The Scam: Imported Goods Passed Off as Local

In recent years, more and more people in France have been choosing fresh, local products, whether it’s at markets or supermarkets, as part of a growing desire to support local farmers and enjoy healthier food. However, a disturbing trend has been spotted — some products labeled as “local” are, in fact, imported. These items, such as fruits and vegetables, may come from countries far outside of France, and the labels, unfortunately, deceive the unsuspecting shopper.

Imagine walking through a local market, thinking you’re buying a fresh, locally grown tomato, only to discover that it’s been shipped from a foreign country. It’s frustrating, especially since many consumers are specifically looking to make healthy and ethical choices with their food. These misleading labels are designed to take advantage of that trust, and some unscrupulous vendors are more than willing to play on it.

Alarming Findings: 34% of Products Have False Origins

This isn’t just a one-off problem. According to Marie Suderie, a spokesperson for the French General Directorate for Competition, Consumer Affairs, and Fraud Control (DGCCRF), one-third of the products labeled “origin France” were actually imported from other countries. A massive 34% of products surveyed in 2024 were found to have incorrect labeling. This means that for every three products you think are locally sourced, one might not be.

The issue isn’t limited to markets either — some supermarkets have also been caught selling goods with inaccurate origin labels. If a product seems suspiciously cheap or out of season, it’s a good idea to double-check its origin before purchasing. Even though it might feel like a hassle, taking the time to read the labels can ensure that you’re buying what you expect.

How to Avoid Falling for the Scam

The good news is that you don’t have to be a victim of this scam. There are a few simple ways to protect yourself and make more responsible purchasing decisions:

• Always check the label: This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s crucial to take a close look at product labels. If you’re looking for a local product, don’t just trust the label – verify that it’s truly from your area.
• Favor seasonal products: Seasonal produce is more likely to be locally grown. By choosing these items, you are supporting local farmers and reducing the carbon footprint of your groceries.
• Watch out for suspiciously low prices: If a product is priced too cheaply, there may be a hidden cost — like being sourced from far-flung locations. Local products tend to have a higher price tag due to the cost of production and quality.
• Buy directly from producers: If possible, visit local farms or specialized stores where you can directly connect with the source of your food. This guarantees better transparency and allows you to verify the origins of what you’re buying.

The Simple but Effective Step: Being an Informed Consumer

In a world where transparency is becoming more important than ever, it’s essential to stay vigilant and check what you’re buying. With the help of organizations like 60 Millions de Consommateurs, we can avoid falling for these sly tricks and make healthier, more informed decisions.

So, the next time you head out to do your shopping — whether at the market or the supermarket — remember that the label is not just a minor detail. It’s your best ally in ensuring that you’re making healthy, local, and transparent purchases. Don’t let a misleading origin ruin your shopping experience!