Consumers will be better informed and businesses better able to export if Tynwald applies EU legislation governing food labelling to the Isle of Man.
 
The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) will ask Tynwald to approve the EU Food Information Order this month.
 
Food labelling is being standardised throughout Europe. The adoption of these standards here would see foodstuffs sold in the Isle of Man carry the same information as those sold elsewhere.
 
Wording on labelling would need to be of a legible size, contain certain nutritional information and state the origin of meat and poultry. Labels would also need to state when foods contain allergens such as nuts or milk.
 
This requirement would extend to food served in hotels, restaurants and cafes, with premises carrying the information on menus or notices or displaying signs advising customers with allergies to seek information from staff.
 
‘Better labelling will enable consumers to make more informed choices when shopping and eating out,’ said Chris Thomas MHK, Member of DEFA responsible for Environment, Safety and Health.
 
‘Local food producers will have to meet European requirements in any case if they want to export, something DEFA is encouraging as it unveils its food business development strategy – see https://www.gov.im/news/2014/nov/05/blueprint-to-grow-food-and-drink-production-to-boost-economy/.
 
DEFA consulted the public over the changes and received helpful responses, which are published under http://www.gov.im/ConsultationDetail.gov?id=458.
 
For further information, contact Ivan Bratty, Food Safety Manager, DEFA – 01624 685889 or ivan.bratty@gov.im.