EU & Labels
In January 2008 the European Commission submitted a proposal to the EU Parliament and Council for a revision of the EU rules on food labelling. This proposal is intended to simplify the existing legal framework governing labelling. The Commission has also declared it an aim of the legislation that it ensure that consumers are provided with comprehensive information about their foodstuffs, as well as promoting healthy eating in line with the EU’s strategy against obesity.
The rule changes are still under consideration by the EU. At present, it is forecast that a plenary session of the Parliament will consider the proposals in May 2009. The Czech Presidency has, however, indicated that it is one of its legislative priorities for its six month leadership of the EU Council that began in January. Despite this, full implementation across the EU will still then take a number of years to allow member states fully to comply with the required changes.
It is to be hoped though that the final legislation will take account of consumers’ demands for clearer country of origin labelling on goods. This would undoubtedly assist us all to make better-informed choices when we shop and would ensure that it is easier for all of us actively to support British farmers and producers.
