November 17, 2008
UK meat groups urge for improved labelling
The releasing of a new guidance on labelling the country of origin of meats is a step in the right direction but there is still room for improvement, according to UK's leading meat groups.
The groups, EBLEX and BPEX, said a clear and transparent labelling is required so the consumer will know what they are buying.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) guidelines aim to benefit consumers by encouraging the industry to adopt consistent labelling practices. The objective is to assist food businesses, including manufacturers, producers, retailers and caterers to comply with the law and avoid misleading labelling. The guidance will also help authorities to identify misleading country of origin labelling.
EBLEX chief executive Richard Lowe said despite anti-misleading legislations, poor labelling and merchandising practices have occurred periodically.
BPEX chief executive Mick Sloyan said while labelling practise has improved, especially for fresh meat, there are still many examples of poor practice with regard to processed and cured pork products.
