On December 13th 2014, the new European regulation on food information/labelling for consumers was activated. The Association of Spanish Supermarket Chains (La Asociación de Cadenas Españolas de Supermercados) (ACES) has developed a small summary of the new main features of this new legislation.
Regarding packaged products, from now on mandatory nutritional information which must appear on the label is set for virtually all packaged foods, both as regards composition of groups of nutrients (total and saturated fats, carbohydrates, sugars, protein and salt) as well as the energy value per 100g or ml.
They have also introduced very detailed rules on clarity and legibility of labeling requirements, including font size and location of information on pack. Manufacturers are required to state the country of origin of the product, as its omission could mislead the consumer, and rules have been established to enforce this obligation.
The information on allergens is regulated as required, and in terms of some kind of ingredients, such as oils or fats of vegetable origin, they have regulated how they may appear on the label also.
Key developments for fresh and bulk produce concern mainly fish products, as they require further indications on the pack on this area and the art of capturing used, and the breeding area with regard to aquaculture. In the ‘Atlantic Northeast’ and ‘Mediterranean and Black Sea’ areas the subzone will have to be indicated.
The new law does not introduce changes to unpackaged fresh fruits and vegetables, and for meat it’s the normal mandatory information, which varies depending on the type of meat.
Finally, ACES warns that the new rules apply to products placed in market as of December 13, so that these products will coexist with existing product for some time on the shelves. In addition, on some products other voluntary information, such as quality labels or recommendations on nutritional information, may also appear.
Source: BordBia – New Food Labelling Legislation Launched in Europe
