France Implements New Labeling Requirements for Meat Origin
[Paris, France] – February 18, 2025 – The French Ministry of Economy has announced new labeling requirements for meat products, effective immediately. These measures aim to provide consumers with clearer information about the origin of their food.
Requirement for Origin Labels
All prepackaged meat products sold in France must now display the following information on their packaging:
- Country of birth
- Country of rearing
- Country of slaughter
- Percentage of meat originating from each country
This information must be clearly visible and easily understandable by consumers.
Exceptions
The new labeling requirements do not apply to:
- Fresh meat sold in butcher shops or at farmers’ markets
- Meat products that are processed or transformed in France before being sold
Enforcement
The French government will enforce the new labeling requirements through inspections and penalties for non-compliance. Penalties can include fines and potential sanctions.
Benefits for Consumers
The new labeling requirements are expected to provide several benefits for consumers:
- Increased transparency: Consumers will have more information about where their meat comes from.
- Informed decision-making: With this information, consumers can make more informed choices about the food they purchase.
- Support for local producers: Consumers can support French farmers by choosing meat products that are raised and processed in France.
Compliance Deadline
Meat producers and retailers have a limited time to comply with the new labeling requirements. All affected products must be properly labeled by March 18, 2025.
Importance of Country of Origin
The country of origin of meat is important for several reasons, including:
- Food safety: Consumers may have concerns about the safety standards of food products from different countries.
- Animal welfare: Consumers may be concerned about the treatment of animals in different countries.
- Environmental impact: Consumers may consider the environmental impact of meat production in different countries.
Statement from the Ministry of Economy
Bruno Le Maire, Minister of Economy, Finance and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty, stated: “These new labeling requirements are a crucial step towards providing consumers with more transparency and choice. French consumers have the right to know where their food comes from, and this measure will help them make informed decisions.”
Origin of meats: a new display obligation to inform the consumer
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economie.gouv.fr a new article on 2025-02-18 17:30 titled “Origine des viandes : une nouvelle obligation d’affichage pour informer le consommateur”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
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