England’s Meat Products Regulations are being amended after the European Commission (EC) revoked a requirement for food producers to declare whether protein or starch have been added to certain meat products.

The proposals aim to bring national regulations in line with EC changes. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are expected to consult on similar, parallel legislation.

The proposals will not leave UK consumers in the dark about added starch and protein ingredients in meat products. The inclusion of these products must be labelled under the name of the food, so not to mislead the consumers, says the FSA. These requirements fall within general labelling legislation and must be implemented.

The requirements to name any added ingredients of a different animal species on the label remains unchanged.

The FSA is committed to ensuring consumers are given clear and informative labelling to help them make informed choices about the food they buy. The DEFRA agency is currently consulting on draft guidance for businesses and enforcement officers. It covers legal requirements and best practice advice for labelling of all added ingredients in the relevant meat products. It also aims to ensure clear information for consumers by encouraging adoption of consistent and transparent labelling practices.

The consultation will run until 30 November 2007.