Public Supports Clearer Food Labelling, But Industry Warns of Confusion

Strategic Insights -

The UK government's consultation on improving food labelling has shown strong public support for clearer information on country of origin and production methods. However, the National Farmers' Union (NFU) has expressed concerns that production method labels could cause confusion and add unnecessary strain on farms. The consultation asked for opinions on improving transparency in food labels, with the NFU stressing the importance of clear and straightforward labels that help consumers make informed choices.

Key Takeaways:

  • The UK government's consultation on food labelling received strong public support for clearer information on country of origin and production methods.
  • The National Farmers' Union (NFU) welcomed the focus on country of origin labelling but warned that method of production labels might cause confusion and place extra strain on farms.
  • NFU deputy president, David Exwood, stated that the most effective labels are simple, accurate, and clearly show the country of origin.
  • The current Labour government has published its response, highlighting that the majority support informative country of origin labelling and labelling based on method of production.
  • The government acknowledged widespread support from the public and stakeholders for clearer information on food welfare standards.
  • Defra proposed mandatory method of production labelling for pork, chicken, and eggs, including both UK-produced and imported products, under the previous Conservative government.
  • Exwood cautioned that method of production labelling 'doesn't necessarily indicate the level of welfare involved, particularly if multiple farming systems are being used.'
  • The NFU supports greater transparency but believes method of production labelling risks causing unnecessary confusion for the public and carries an unreasonable burden to food and farming businesses.
  • The government has promised to consider all feedback as it continues to develop policies in partnership with farming and food industry groups.
  • Plans include reforming method of production labelling as part of a wider animal welfare and food strategy, working closely with devolved governments.
  • Exwood reiterated the NFU's position that the best labels remain clear, simple, and accurately show the country of origin.
  • The NFU also stressed the need to protect UK standards by ensuring products entering the country meet environmental and animal welfare conditions that comply with UK laws.

Statistics:

  • According to the NFU, the most effective labels are simple, accurate, and clearly show the country of origin.
  • The government has acknowledged widespread support from the public and stakeholders for clearer information on food welfare standards.
  • Defra proposed mandatory method of production labelling for pork, chicken, and eggs, including both UK-produced and imported products.
  • The proposed system included a five-tier system to indicate factors such as stocking density, outdoor access, and enrichment.
  • The NFU estimates that method of production labelling risks causing unnecessary confusion for the public and carries an unreasonable burden to food and farming businesses.

Sources:

  • Kate Fisher, "Government's recent consultation shows strong public support for clearer food labelling"
  • National Farmers' Union (NFU), "Response to the UK Government's Consultation on Food Labelling"
  • David Exwood, NFU deputy president, quoted in "Government's response to food labelling consultation welcomed by NFU"