Legislation applicable until 12 December 2014
EU legislation on food labelling covers:
- General rules on food labelling
- Rules for specific foods e.g. beef or chocolate.
Directive 2000/13/EC on labelling, presentation and advertising of foods is the main EU legislation on the subject.
Key points of Directive 2000/13/EC
- Consumers get all the essential information on composition, manufacturer, storage methods and preparation, etc.
- Applies to foods delivered as such to the consumer or to restaurants, hospitals, canteens and other mass caterers.
- Food labels must be indelible and easy to see, understand and read, with some particulars appearing in the same field of vision.
- Substances known as allergens must always be indicated on the label. (EU list of allergens or substances causing intolerances - Annex IIIa).
- Labels must indicate the quantity of certain ingredients as a percentage of the final product (Quantitative Ingredients Declaration - QUID).
- Producers and manufacturers can give additional labelling information, if it is accurate and does not mislead the consumer.
- Prohibits claims on any food that it prevents, treats or cures a human disease.