Pig and beef in apple juice Current investigation shows inaccuracies of food labeling

A recent market check by consumer organization foodwatch notes that every third apple juice contains 'hidden animals'. The VEBU (Vegetarian Union Germany) is committed to a clear food labeling.

Already knew? Gelatine in apple juice. Image: det-anan sunonethong - fotolia

"The investigation of foodwatch shows that every third apple juice is produced with the help of animal gelatine. However, consumers can not recognize this from the packaging. These results make it clear, for example, that we need clearer food labeling to allow consumers to make their own choices, "says Till Strecker, Head of VEBU Policy. At present, consumers do not need to be informed about processing aids, such as gelatine for clarifying apple juice.

For added flavors and other ingredients, it is not necessary to state whether they are of animal or vegetable origin. From the point of view of the VEBU, there is a lot of room here for improved labeling rules, which lead to more freedom of choice on the part of the customers. "A very simple way to inform interested consumers about whether and to what extent a food was made with the help of animal substances is the claim as 'vegan' or 'vegetarian'. So far, however, there is no legally binding definition of which criteria vegan and vegetarian foods must meet exactly, "explains Strecker.

Legally binding definition is required
"The VEBU has developed an appropriate proposal for a legally binding definition together with the countries and the food industry. Now it's up to Brussels to create the much-needed legal clarity, "says Strecker. The consumer protection ministers of the federal states have recently decided to apply the definition drawn up, inter alia, by the VEBU as a benchmark for the work of the food control authorities. The European Food Information Regulation obliges the EU Commission to formulate corresponding criteria that would then be legally binding for the entire EU. Despite the explicit support of the definition proposal by all parties in the German Bundestag and the Federal Government, the Commission has not yet taken action.

V-Label offers orientation
Safety when buying products offers the V label. The V-Label is an internationally protected quality seal for the labeling of vegetarian and vegan foods. It is used as a guide on packaging. Consumers can see at first glance when purchasing, whether a product is suitable for them. The V label is awarded in Germany in the categories 'vegan' and 'vegetarian' by the VEBU. Not all substances used in production appear on the list of ingredients. Only through a product request from the manufacturer can consumers so far ensure that a food is vegetarian or vegan. If the product is licensed under the V label, consumers can be sure that it is a vegetarian or vegan product. (Pm)