Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Agriculture and Food Éamon O Cuiv is calling for assurances on food labelling standards in Ireland.
“The new Minster for Agriculture must work with national authorities and colleagues at EU level to ensure there is a fit for purpose food labelling system in place,” he said.
O Cuiv said that a proper labelling system is required to ensure that Irish farmers’ produce is not constrained on export markets.
The Fianna Fáil spokesperson said that at the moment, products only display the information required by the country in which they were made, rather than adopting a full and transparent approach.
Consumers want to know what is in the products they’re eating and when they are shopping in a supermarket, they are reliant on the information on the product labels.
“It is essential that there is consistency and full transparency in labelling so that consumers are not left in the dark about the nutritional value of these food products.
O Cuiv also said that Irish consumers must have complete clarity on the food labelling of all products the purchase.
“There can be no room for misleading and inconsistent labelling.
“The Irish agri-food industry is heavily dependent on exports, with 90% of all produce exported annually.
“Ireland needs to keep watch on any EU proposals that would disproportionately negate our capacity to continue to export our world class food produce,” he said.