Why is the Commission proposing new legislation on food labelling?
Updating the rules to reflect the modern market The current legislation on general food labelling dates back to 1978 and nutrition labelling rules were adopted in 1990. Consumer demands and marketing practices have changed significantly since then. EU labelling legislation needs to be updated to reflect the new ways in which food is packaged and sold. Given the amount of information presented to consumers today and the ever more innovative and complex styles of labels, there is a need for a system that allows consumers easy access to the most important and relevant information on food labels, while still encouraging innovation on the part of industry. EU rules also need to take into account the different purchasing habits of the modern consumer. For example, many consumers now buy their food via the internet. These consumers have the same need for clear, essential information as those who shop in their local supermarket. The aim is to create legislation which is flexible enough to be e
