Retailers Best on Origin Labeling Says Government Assessment

In November 2010, Britain's major grocers publicly committed to guidance titled "Principles on Country of Origin Information", formalising what they were already doing to provide consumers with clear, accurate information on the origin of their food.

5/27/2011 --- Retailers' record on country of origin labelling is confirmed as better than other parts of the food industry by a new Government assessment published in the UK.

In November 2010, Britain's major grocers publicly committed to guidance titled "Principles on Country of Origin Information", formalising what they were already doing to provide consumers with clear, accurate information on the origin of their food. Less than three months later (February) the Government tested compliance against the Principles.

The Principles apply to meat, processed meat products (sausages, bacon, ham etc.) and milk, fresh cream, cheese and butter. They ensure that the term "British" can only be used for meat from animals born and reared in the UK, and dairy products made from milk produced here. Many British grocers already use this approach to origin labelling, with the overwhelming majority committed to going one step further, providing country of origin information on the meat in all "composite" products – such as soups and ready meals.

Retailers' own brands were the best performers, ahead of food manufacturers' brands. Despite also being signatories to the Principles, commercial caterers and the hospitality trade were left out of the study.

British Retail Consortium Food Director Andrew Opie said: "These are results retailers can be proud of but they're no surprise. The big grocers already had an excellent record on providing clear information that works for those customers who want to buy British. In fact, many of the retailers already go well beyond the high minimum standards set out in the Principles.

"Customers will expect the same level of information wherever they buy food. Catering establishments were left out of this assessment, but Government is right to be looking for them to match the exemplary performance retailers are already delivering."