Beef Labelling Scheme
The Beef Labelling Scheme was introduced to provide consumers with reliable information about the beef and veal they buy. The compulsory labelling system requires all fresh and frozen beef to be labelled with basic information about its origin and the license number of the relevant abattoir and cutting plant. Under the voluntary scheme, anyone in the supply chain giving consumers anything more than basic information about beef must get prior approval from SEERAD. Approval is given only if the applicant has put in place arrangements to guarantee the accuracy of the information. To do this the applicant has to employ an independent third party, accredited to European Standard EN45011, to verify the details on the label.
Beef labelling is monitored by Local Authorities at the retail level and by SEERAD's Meat and Livestock Inspectors at abattoirs, cutting plants and wholesalers.
CONTACT & INFORMATION - Livestock and Livestock Products Branch, SEERAD, Room 251, Pentland House, 47 Robb's Loan, Edinburgh, EH14 1TY, Tel: 0131 244 6408 or visit the Scottish Executive's website at www.scotland.gov.uk/beeflabellingscheme