MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on adding sugar to wine

9.4.2018

pursuant to Rule 133 of the Rules of Procedure

Nicola Caputo

B8‑0180/2018

Motion for a European Parliament resolution on adding sugar to wine

The European Parliament,

–  having regard to Rule 133 of its Rules of Procedure,

A.  whereas Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 exempts alcoholic beverages containing more than 1.2 % by volume of alcohol from the listing of ingredients, such as added sugars, on labels;

B.  whereas this practice is prohibited in Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus and in some parts of France, while it is permitted in northern European countries;

C.  whereas in Mediterranean countries wine enrichment is permitted only by using rectified concentrated grape must, resulting in higher costs compared to the practice of chaptalisation (addition of sugar);

D.  whereas consumers must be guaranteed full information and transparency;

1.  Takes the view that the refusal to provide this information constitutes an infringement of consumers’ right to information and is a form of unfair competition for producers who do not resort to the practice of chaptalisation;

2.  Calls on the Commission to take appropriate measures to ensure fair competition between wine producers from northern Europe and those from the Mediterranean area;

3.  Calls for the right to information of EU consumers to be protected.