Feature: European Up-date

The European Parliament has a new president, Mr Hans-Gettering the German conservative MEP. He now governs, with the joining of Bulgaria and Romania, a ‘Europe of 27’, comprising 785 MEPs speaking 23 different languages. His arrival puts all three main European institutions in the hands of the Right.

In terms of the recent key highlights set to impact our industry:

Tighter rules on ‘healthy’ food claims

On the 9th January the final text on the Regulation on Nutrition and Health Claims made on food came into force. It applies to claims used in labelling, to the presentation or advertising of foods, to trademarks and to brand names. It covers verbal, graphic, pictorial or symbolic representations that state, suggest or imply that a food has a particular characteristic.

The text states that claims shouldn’t be misleading and that the ‘average consumer’ must understand any beneficial effects stated. In addition anyone making nutrition and health claims must conform to nutrient profiles.

Call for EU-wide pack labelling

Parliament called on the Commission to draw upon member-states’ experience to develop and introduce EU wide front-of-pack nutrition labelling and a call for manufacturers to consider product reformulation.

Schools to get more fresh foods

On 1st February Parliament adopted an own-initiative report on the prevention on overweight, obesity and chronic diseases. The report called for the fight against obesity to be a political priority for the EU and its member states. Member states have been asked to provide sufficient funds for school catering to allow them to serve freshly produced meals.

Spain lobbies for ‘light’ ban

The Spanish organisation of Medical Colleges called on government to introduce health warnings on food with high calorific values. Many Spaniards have already voiced concern over this level of intervention. They also want a ban on the phrase ‘light’.

Heading for a smoke-free Europe

The European Commission lodged a debate and Green Paper on smoking bans – aiming to increase smoke-free zones in member-states. It will consider self-regulation, non-binding and binding regulation as well as case by case decisions from member states. The Commission will recommend a way forward for 2008.