Information on the origin of raw materials contained in dairy products has become mandatory in Italy.
According to the Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Policies, the new measure, which came into force on April 19, applies to dairy products such as UHT milk, butter, yoghurt, mozzarella, cheese and curd.
It applies equally to milk from cows, sheep, goat, buffalo and other animals.
Minister Maurizio Martina defined the measure as a historic milestone for Italy, adding that he hopes that the trial will become a European standard.
The regulations anticipate that the origin of milk and milk derivatives must be indicated on the label in a clear, visible and easily legible way.
If the milk has been produced, packaged and processed in Italy, the label will state: “Origin of Milk: Italy."
If the packaging and processing phases taking place in several countries, other than Italy, the label will say: “Milk from EU Countries”, “Milk Conditioned or Processed in EU Countries” or “Milk Conditioned or Processed in Non-EU Countries”.
The measure excludes DOP and IGP products that already have their own regulations regarding origin and tracing of fresh milk.
© 2017 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Branislav Pekic. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine
