A comparative view on the legal implications of labelling and nutrition labelling for foodstuffs

Abstract

The focus of this term paper is primarily on the critical analysis of the EU Regulation 1169/2011 on the provision of food information to consumers. This Regulation has brought about significant changes in the sphere of labelling and nutrition labelling, particularly by the introduction of mandatory nutrition labelling for pre-packed foods and new requirements for allergen labelling amongst others. Due to the vastness of the Regulation, the paper focuses and scrutinises certain crucial aspects of it and also seeks to draw attention to the Maltese position in respect of such aspects. The Regulation has also brought to light the importance of having honest and truthful labelling and therefore seeks to combat deceptive practices on the part of the food industry. In light of this, the paper goes into the concept of misleading labelling and the legal implications thereof. In order shed light on a broader spectrum, a comparison between US and EU laws is made in order to better understand the benefits and shortcomings of EU law on the subject matter. The findings of this study include recommendations for the purpose of encouraging a more practical approach for the attainment of an advanced level of consumer protection and the smooth functioning of the internal market.