The current legislative framework in place regarding origin labelling ensures that misleading origin statements are not made and that consumers are accurately informed. Origin labelling is mandatory for several foods (e.g. honey, fish and meat), and for all other categories, when the absence of such information may mislead the consumer.
A recent development in origin labelling policy covers the new requirement to declare the origin of a food’s primary ingredient if different to that of the food’s given origin (applicable as of 1 April 2020).
Food businesses are also able to declare voluntary origin statements. Where it is feasible to do so and where there is proven consumer demand, this information may be shared in a range of ways, from on pack labels to digital channels. The voluntary nature of these origin declarations builds on the current legislation to provide clear information for consumers, and do not unnecessarily restrict supply chains, nor impose additional costs to consumer.
Updates & milestones
Mandatory primary ingredient origin labelling if different from food
UpdateNew labelling legislation on when and how to declare the origin of a product’s primary ingredient came into force in the UK and EU on 1 April 2020. The new rules are that, where the origin of a food is given and where this is not the same as that of its primary ingredient, then the primary ingredient’s origin needs to be declared or statement that it differs. 'Primary ingredient' means an ingredient or ingredients of a food that represent more than 50 % of that food or which are usually associated with the name of the food by the consumer and for which in most cases a quantitative indication is required [FIC Article 2(2)(q)].
- Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2018/775
- BRC UK Industry Guidance on the Implementing Regulation (EU) 2018/775 (supported by FDF)
- PFP/FDE/EuroCommerce EU Guidance on the Origin Indication of the Primary Ingredient
Further information: FDF origin labelling toolkit
Receive updates on this topic
Want to keep up to date on this topic?
You can receive email updates on this topic by registering for an FDF account.
You can edit your preferences so that you receive updates on the topics and the type of information you are interested in.
Interested in becoming a member?
FDF members have access to a range of benefits to grow, protect and strengthen their business.
Gain an advantage, join FDF today.
Related topics

General food labelling
Food labelling is an important means of providing essential information to consumers. This includes details on a food’s ingredients, composition, durability, storage and preparation requirements, any safety related information and identification of the manufacturer.

Regulatory assurance framework
Regulatory systems, in place by both local and central government, ensure food law is applied across the food chain.

Food information and regulatory assurance
To inform and protect consumers' interests in food, regulatory systems are in place to ensure that food law is applied across the food chain.