From:packagingeurope



For those involved with the food manufacturing, production and distribution industries, the topic of labelling and the various changes that are being enacted in countries around the world regarding these specific disciplines are nearly impossible to avoid. In an effort to improve the overall health and awareness of consumers, numerous organizations in both Europe and North America and advocating for complete overhauls of pre-existing labelling conventions, which many believe are antiquated and fail to properly educate customers as to what they are actually buying.

In Taunton and West Somerset, among other areas of the UK, these new labelling laws may bring with them unexpected twists and turns that, unless properly studied, could result in infringement of the new policies. One example of recent additions to labelling policies here include a requirement that products be labelled with any one of 14 potential allergens that may be included during the production process. While some have shrugged off this idea as excessive or, in the most extreme of circumstances, oppressive, others believe that by providing this information to consumers, those who may have a sensitivity to a particular product will be in a much better place to avoid it during the shopping process. In some cases, individuals with extreme allergic reactions to products found in the foods they buy have ended up in extreme physical pain or discomfort. Hopefully, this new labelling process will ensure that these situations do not occur as frequently.

A variety of information is being dispersed about the new laws, and is available through the Food Standards Agency (FSA) website. Both consumers and food manufacturers will likely be able to benefit from a quick perusal of this information, if only to ensure that they remain up-to-date as to what is expected in the current legislation.
The UK is not the only country where such legislation is being enacted. Recent efforts from both noted political figures, such as Michelle Obama, as well as various NGO’s and civic awareness groups, have helped to inform consumers as to what information they have a right to know when purchasing the products they use to feed themselves and their children. In today’s society of empowerment and transparency, such information should not be considered a gift - it should be a requisite. Fortunately for consumers, a growing number of food manufacturers are concurring with these sentiments and adjusting their business plans to make room for increased promotion of responsible eating and drinking habits as well as how to better prepare a healthy meal. Food labels have, thus, become the foundation for substantive change.

More info:www.labelservice.co.uk