DraftAnimalWelfareLabelingLaw

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Jul 30, 2018 - Foods

DraftAnimalWelfareLabelingLaw

The BMEL (Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture) has completed its first draft of the "Law on the Introduction and Use of an Animal Welfare Label (Animal Welfare Label Law)" and released it for commentary.

The law aims to introduce a uniform, state animal welfare label, whose use will be voluntary but tied to mandatory requirements. When using the animal welfare label for products of animal origin, additional, more comprehensive animal welfare standards must be met in addition to those that already exist. These standards particularly pertain to the keeping, transport, and slaughter of animals.

Anyone wishing to use the animal welfare label must notify the BVL (Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety) in writing of the intended use, as it is the central administrative body for the approval and use of the animal welfare label and may use it on their products once they receive confirmation from the BVL.

As part of the Animal Welfare Label Law, the BMEL is also authorized to regulate, among other things, the requirements and design of the animal welfare label in ordinances.

Currently, a regulation containing criteria for the three-tier animal welfare label is already in progress. In this regard, the requirements for improving animal welfare increase from level to level, e.g., in terms of space and opportunities for animals to engage in activities, as well as longer suckling phases for young animals or improved transport conditions.

Furthermore, the possibility of voluntarily linking the animal welfare label with an indication of origin is being considered.

We will keep you updated on further developments. Our customer advisors are happy to assist you with any questions.

Source: www.bll.de