EU simplifies rules for the food supply chain

Less paperwork, faster procedures, while maintaining the same high safety standards. That is the aim of a new package of proposals from the European Commission for the food and feed sector. The rules will be structured more simply, without compromising requirements for food safety, health, and environmental protection. For many companies in the food industry, this could make a noticeable difference.

Broad package, wide reach

The proposal affects almost the entire food supply chain. From plant protection products and biocidal products to feed, official controls, and animal health. The Commission refers to it as a so-called cross-cutting package, intended to streamline procedures within existing legislation.

According to Brussels, the combined simplifications could save more than one billion euros per year in costs. For EU businesses, this amounts to over 428 million euros. National administrations are expected to spend approximately 661 million euros less each year. Altogether, the estimated annual administrative savings total 939 million euros. The proposals form part of a broader approach.

Faster access to inputs and products

For farmers and suppliers, the package includes several concrete changes. The Commission aims to accelerate procedures for market access of bio-pesticides. This should result in a broader range of crop protection products. Renewal procedures for pesticides and biocides will also become more targeted and more efficient.

In the feed sector, requirements for renewing authorisations for feed additives will be eased. At the same time, the Commission is pushing for digital labelling. The proposal also provides for simpler market access for fermentation products and adjusted accreditation rules for official laboratories.

Imports, controls, and animal health

When it comes to border controls on plant products, the Commission is opting for a more pragmatic approach. Work is also underway to better align production standards for imports, particularly with regard to pesticide residues. This is being done within the framework of the Vision for Agriculture and based on an ongoing impact assessment.

Finally, requirements for BSE surveillance and risk mitigation will be adjusted in line with current scientific insights. The proposal has now been submitted to the European Parliament and the Council for further consideration.

Ec.europa.eu