The Food Information Regulations 2014 - Consultation
 
The public is invited to comment on draft regulations that would improve the labelling of food and drink.
 
The regulations would bring labelling of local produce in line with the EU regulation on Food Information to Consumers which aims to make food labels clearer, and to increase the origin, nutritional and allergen information on them.
 
Ivan Bratty, the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture’s Food Safety Manager, says: “Updating our regulations on food labelling will mean that Island consumers are provided with the same information about local produce as they are about imported goods. Although the EU regulations are being implemented over a two year period, many off-Island food labels have already taken them into account.”
 
“Improved labelling should help consumers to make more informed choices when shopping”, said Mr Chris Thomas MHK, the political member of the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture with responsibility for the Environment, Safety and Health Directorate.
 
Mr Thomas added: “The food sector is vitally important for the Island, providing many jobs in production, catering, distribution and retailing, and an estimated contribution of ?100 million to the economy. Labelling in line with others could provide opportunities for the local food industry to grow.”
 
The consultation which closes on 3rd October 2014 can be viewed here: www.gov.im/daff/ConsultationDetail.gov?id=458.
 
Any comments or views can be submitted to Ivan Bratty, Food Safety Manager, DEFA, Thie Slieau Whallian, Foxdale Road, St John’s or by email to ivan.bratty@gov.im or telephone +44 (0)1624 685889.