
The European Union's health commissioner has called for stricter sanctions in order to prevent a repeat of horsemeat scandal and other food frauds.
"The scandal confirms the importance of proper controls and dissuasive sanctions," Health Commissioner Tonio Borg told the European Parliament's health and food safety committee.
Advertisement
Borg said that "to reinforce the element of dissuasiveness," an upcoming proposal by the EU executive to review agri-food legislation will include a call on member states to agree financial penalities for intentional violations of food chain rules "at a level which offsets the financial gain sought through the violation."
Even in the case of false labelling, the penalty must serve "as an effective deterrent that shows that crime does not pay" and be at least equal to the economic gain made by those involved, he said.
Borg said the Commission also favoured tighter controls along the food chain "in case of risk".
New proposals for stiffer sanctions and tighter controls will be presented in the spring, said Borg's spokesman. But they will have to be agreed by both the parliament and the 27 member states, meaning they are unlikely to be ready before the end of the mandate of the present Commission in May 2014.
Source: AFP
Advertisement
Borg said the Commission also favoured tighter controls along the food chain "in case of risk".
New proposals for stiffer sanctions and tighter controls will be presented in the spring, said Borg's spokesman. But they will have to be agreed by both the parliament and the 27 member states, meaning they are unlikely to be ready before the end of the mandate of the present Commission in May 2014.
Source: AFP
Advertisement
Advertisement
|
Advertisement
Recommended Reading
Latest Diet & Nutrition News

Study has revealed that despite the rising popularity of avocado oil, nearly 70% of private-label avocado oil is found to be rancid and adulterated with other oils.

Impact of plate size on meal intake and weight loss efforts is underscored by experts as they advocate for the benefits of choosing smaller plates.

Experts have shared common and easy ways to relish watermelon this summer. Read on to find how.

A recently developed skin patch was found to protect kids with peanut allergies, revealed clinical trial results.

New study highlights the recommended dietary patterns and support strategies for individuals with hypertension, prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, and obesity.