The EU Confederation of the Food and Drink Industries (CIAA) recently reminded the new EU Spanish Presidency of the important issues that Spain must tackle during its six month presidency.
In a memorandum transmitted to the Spanish Ministers of Agriculture, Foreign Relations and Health the CIAA stated that key issues central to future debates are: the European Food Safety Authority; EU Enlargement; Genetically Modified Organisms; and Packaging and Packaging Waste Recycling.
The CIAA stressed that it was vital for the overall food safety of Europe that the new European Food Safety Authority be set up as soon as possible and that representatives from the various food chain links be involved in its management.
The group also recalled its reservations regarding the Commission proposals on the traceability and labelling of GMOs. The CIAA maintained its position that proposed measures are inapplicable for industry and will not contribute to reassuring the consumer.