Would self-regulation in the food industry not be sufficient to prevent misleading advertising and labelling?
Voluntary commitments from industry can and do play a role in preventing misleading information from being provided to the consumer and in helping to promote healthier diets and lifestyles. The Commission is working closely with the food and drinks industry through initiatives such as the European Platform on Diet, Physical Activity and Health, and encouraging the food sector to take its own initiatives in promoting healthier lifestyles and better consumer information. However, a single market needs common rules in order for goods to be traded freely and fairly, and this Regulation will create a level playing field for anyone wishing to market food in the EU. It will also protect consumers against certain products which are not subject to self-regulation and which carry false or inaccurate information.
