This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Beef labelling consultation
15/11/2005
A consultation on country of origin labelling of beef in the food service sector was announced today.
The aim of the consultation is to get views on a proposal to require the food service sector to inform consumers about the origin of beef served.
Speaking at the Scottish Agricultural College conference at Murrayfield Stadium, Minister for Environment and Rural Development Ross Finnie said :
"At present country of origin information is displayed to customers when they buy raw beef in retail outlets. No such requirement applies to the food service sector.
"There is evidence of some consumer confusion about the origin of beef such as Aberdeen Angus served in restaurants and other food service outlets. I welcome the chance to gather views about how to best address this. "
The consultation paper launched today explains the current position and the Executive's reason for proposing a requirement to indicate the country of origin of beef served in the food service sector. It poses a number of questions to seek views on whether the change is supported by consumers and businesses and to assess how information could be provided with minimum cost to businesses.
At present the labelling of beef at processor and retail level is governed by the EU Beef Labelling Regulations. In addition to ensuring traceability of produce, the EU-wide labelling scheme is intended to provide consumers with clear, reliable information about the beef they are buying.
This labelling information is not currently displayed for consumers in the food service sector and the consultation proposes to get views on whether this gap needs to be plugged.