Thomas Lyons 
The European Commission has proposed revisions to existing market standards for several agri-food products, including free-range egg production. The proposed changes would allow for solar panels to be installed in areas used for egg production, which will increase the supply of energy from renewable sources. The revisions will apply to a variety of products, including fruit, vegetables, fruit juices, jams, and honey. The commission believes that these changes will help consumers make more informed choices for a healthier diet and contribute to preventing food waste.
The proposal would also require clearer, mandatory origin labelling for honey, nuts, and dried fruits, as well as for ripened bananas, trimmed, processed, and cut fruit and vegetables. This will increase transparency for customers, as the country or countries of origin will have to appear on the label. The revisions will also address food waste and packaging waste. For example, fruit and vegetables with external defects that are still suitable for local or direct consumption, and that are sold locally and directly by producers, will be exempted from complying with market standards. Additionally, products intended for donation may be exempted from some labelling requirements.
The proposed new regulations for eggs, fruit, and vegetables will be available for public feedback for one month. After that, the proposal will be adopted and sent to the European Parliament and the Council of the EU for a scrutiny period of two months. The EU’s market standards are designed to ensure that the quality of products remains high, that consumers are protected, and that standards are consistent within the EU market. The standards also facilitate trade with third countries as they are consistent with existing standards at the international level.
According to the commission, agricultural markets have evolved significantly over the last decade due to innovation, societal concerns, and consumer demands. The commission said that the proposals it outlined will “ensure that marketing standards can contribute to the promotion and uptake of sustainable products, while addressing new needs of consumers and operators”.
This proposal is a step in the right direction for promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing food waste. By allowing for solar panels in free-range egg production areas, the EU is promoting the use of renewable energy sources. Additionally, the mandatory origin labelling for honey, nuts, and dried fruits, as well as for ripened bananas, trimmed, processed, and cut fruit and vegetables, will increase transparency for consumers, allowing them to make more informed choices about the products they purchase.
The exemption of market standards for fruit and vegetables with external defects that are still suitable for local or direct consumption, and that are sold locally and directly by producers, is also a positive step in reducing food waste. By allowing these products to be sold and consumed, rather than being discarded due to minor defects, the EU is promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing food waste.
Overall, the proposed revisions to existing market standards for agri-food products are a positive step towards promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing food waste. The EU’s commitment to renewable energy sources and transparency for consumers is commendable, and the proposed changes will help ensure that marketing standards can contribute to the promotion and uptake of sustainable products. The public feedback period and scrutiny period by the European Parliament and the Council of the EU will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to provide input and ensure that the proposed changes are in the best interest of consumers and the environment.
