UK traffic light system for nutrition labelling of foodstuffs

11.9.2013

Question for written answer E-010157-13
to the Commission
Rule 117
Axel Voss (PPE)

In June 2013, the UK Government introduced a traffic light system for nutrition labelling of foodstuffs in a common initiative involving retailers and manufacturers.

1. In the Commission’s view, is a mandatory national labelling system actually being introduced through this initiative, whereby companies that do not follow this system are put under public pressure?

2. What is the Commission’s view of the fact that it is small and medium-sized manufacturers of foodstuffs in particular that are affected by this scheme, as they can no longer use uniform packaging for their products within the EU?

3. In the Commission’s opinion, does the UK traffic light system not create an obstacle to the single EU internal market as a result of this, thereby contravening Article 35(1)(g) of Regulation (EC) No 1169/2011?

4. In its opinion, does the UK traffic light system meet the conditions of Article 35(1)(a) of Regulation (EC) No 1169/2011 for it to be based on sound and scientifically valid consumer research?

5. Does this scheme contravene EC law within the meaning of the aforementioned EC Regulation?

6. Is the Commission considering initiating an infringement procedure against the United Kingdom? If not, why not?

OJ C 197, 26/06/2014