The use of uniform symbols in the product information in the product specifications for pot orchids

In 2014 the uniform product information symbols for pot orchids were introduced, after being approved by the FPC. Currently, around 40% of orchid suppliers use them.

The Chain Communication and Quality workgroup has recommended including the use of uniform symbols in the product information in the product specifications for pot orchids.

This proposal was approved by the FPC Pot Orchid and the VBN Regulations Steering Group.

There are several reasons for requiring the use of the uniform symbols on labels:

• Uniformity ensures that consumers become familiar with the symbols and will eventually be able to recognise them, making the care of their plants easier to understand.
• Uniformity fosters widespread communication about the care of pot plants. For example, consumers can find the symbols on websites or shop personnel can be trained and in turn inform consumers better.
• If everyone keeps using their own symbols, consumers will find it difficult to understand how to care for pot plants, and there is no possibility of doing something about it.

In the product specifications for pot orchids, the following is included under the ‘Product-specific packaging regulations’:
It is mandatory for orchids in pot to be accompanied by product information using uniform symbols (insert or hanging labels or something else as long as it is associated with the product). The print files for the uniform product information symbols can be downloaded from the www.vbn.nl homepage under the heading ‘Symbolen’.