MEP Eric Andrieu (S&D, France) criticised the position of the seven EU countries opposed to mandatory simplified food labelling, especially the Nutri-Score, on Friday 25 September, accusing them of being the mouthpieces of multinationals, to the detriment of consumer interests.
At the ‘Agriculture’ Council of the EU, Italy, the Czech Republic, Cyprus, Greece, Hungary, Latvia and Romania advocated an approach “based on scientific information concerning portions and quantities actually consumed” and which does not penalise products such as olive oil, which is fatty by nature, but is part of the Mediterranean diet “unanimously recognised as healthy” (see EUROPE 12564/13).
“The lobbies were also present at this meeting. Not in person, but through the voice of several ministers who have defended their interests at the expense of European consumers and, therefore, of the general interest. This is unacceptable!”, said Mr Andrieu in a statement.
Pointing out that 8 out of the 10 largest multinationals are still opposed to the Nutri-Score, he added: “Europe must not give in to pressure! Firstly, because the health of 500 million European citizens is paramount and because consumers have indicated that they are overwhelmingly in favour of the Nutri-Score”.
The Commission has not yet decided which option it prefers for the modalities of the future harmonised labelling scheme and MEPs are as divided as Member States (see EUROPE 12514/11). (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)