Switch to an accessible version of this website which is easier to read. (requires cookies)

Truth about foods for East Midlands shoppers

May 18, 2006 1:04 PM

Shoppers are to be given more information on the labels of food which they buy as the EU clamps down on dubious health claims.

New rules ratified by the European Parliament during the Second Reading of the report this week will prevent food manufacturers publishing claims on packs unless there is evidence to justify them. The amended report it now goes to the Council of Ministers to be examined by national health ministers from the 25 member states for their Second Reading it can become EU legislation.

Consumers will have to be told the whole story. A product which is promoted as 'rich in vitamins', for example, must also reveal that it has a 'high sugar content'.

Bill Newton Dunn, Liberal Democrat MEP for the East Midlands welcomed it, saying:

"Many products provide generally good nutritional value but may also have a downside. The important thing is that shoppers are given clear information so that they can make well-informed choices for themselves."

"We're putting a stop to the more dubious health claims made by food manufacturers across Europe which do not stand up to scientific scrutiny."

No food products will be banned by the new EU law. But manufacturers who are unable to justify claims will have to change their packaging and labelling.

What would you like to do next?

  • Subscribe for updates

    Read updates from this website in your desktop or online news reader

    • On a news reader website

      •  
      •  
      •  

      In a desktop news reader or a website not listed above

      •  
    • Example monthly digest email
      •  
      •  
      •  
    • If you submit your email address, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you have provided to contact you from time to time about issues we think you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of some or all contacts at any time by contacting us.


    • Generate different image

    Join our email list

    • If you submit your email address, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you have provided to contact you from time to time about issues we think you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of some or all contacts at any time by contacting us.


    • Generate different image

    Follow the party's activity on...

  • Share this page

    Share this page on another website

    Link to this page

    On websites and printed material:
    eastmidslibdems.org.uk/en/article/2006/048523/truth-about-foods-for-east-midlands-shoppers-1
    In text messages, Twitter, or reading over the phone:
    libdemeuro.com/a3254

    Email this page to a friend


    • Generate different image
  • Help out or donate

    Help out in your local area

      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
    • If you submit your email address, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you have provided to contact you from time to time about issues we think you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of some or all contacts at any time by contacting us.


    • Generate different image
  • Tell us what you think

    Send us your views

    • If you choose to join our email list, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you have provided to contact you from time to time about issues we think you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of some or all contacts at any time by contacting us. You do not need to join our email list to complete this form.


    • Generate different image