Clearer food labelling moves a step closer after EU vote

Clear country of origin food labelling has moved a step closer after sustained NFU lobbying in Brussels.

The European Parliament Environment and Consumer Protection Committee has today voted in favour of requiring country of origin to be labelled on meat, poultry, dairy products, fresh fruit and vegetables and other single-ingredient products.

NFU Deputy President Meurig Raymond said: This is a significant victory and I would like to thank UK MEPs from all parties for their invaluable support. However, much more work needs to be done before the full vote later this year. There is still a long way to go and Im sure the change to labelling rules will be challenged strongly by others in the EU. It is clear the current guidelines arent working so its essential that we try and keep country of origin labelling high on the agenda

Labelling needs to provide accurate, clear and relevant information so consumers can make an informed choice. People buying meat and dairy products want to know where the animal was reared so they know exactly what they are getting. Consumers also want consistency in labelling across all sectors and deserve not to be misled. We believe there is no reason why mandatory country of origin labeling should not be extended to the remaining sectors as well as to the main ingredients of semi-processed foods.