An Integrated Analysis of Food Information to Consumers: Problems, Pitfalls, Policies and Progress

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the discussion on the positive and negative aspects of food information requirements, especially in the light of the acceptance of a new food information regulation (EU) 1169/2011. The methods which are used are legal and literature studies, case studies as well as the provision of supplementary data on the effects of food information requirements on consumer choices, costs and benefits. The field of food information is complex, since it includes legal, socio-psychological as well as economic aspects. The paper describes the major recent changes in food information law and the barriers to competitiveness of the European food industry as a consequence of connected problems and pitfalls. It suggests technical and legal solutions for improvement. The paper especially focuses on the major barriers to innovation: the competition on the package of legal and commercial information, the labelling of novel foodstuffs, (i.e., nanotechnology and gmo), and the authorisation of health claims. It advices to overhaul food information law: to integrate, simplify and to improve its logic.