Written declaration on a proposal for transparent labelling for accurate information on the origin, quality and traceability of foodstuffs

The European Parliament,

– having regard to Directive 2000/13/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 March 2000 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to the labelling, presentation and advertising of foodstuffs,

– having regard to Rule 116 of its Rules of Procedure,

A. whereas European citizens are increasingly calling for greater transparency on the origin and quality of foodstuffs,

B. whereas the current standards are insufficient to ensure that consumers obtain more detailed information on the origin and quality of foods,

C. whereas there is a labelling standard (known as Pianesiana supplementary labelling) that clearly conveys all the details of the origin and characteristics of the product (origin and method of cultivation of the individual ingredients, amount of water used in the cleaning process etc.) and describing each stage in the process (from producer to consumer),

D. whereas in Italy alone this labelling standard has already been adopted by 253 companies in the agrifood sector (721 products) and by businesses in other economic sectors,

1. Calls on the Council and Commission to study and put in place a system common to all the Member States based on the above supplementary labelling standard, to ensure accurate information on the origin, quality and traceability of foodstuffs;

2. Instructs its President to forward this declaration, together with the names of the signatories, to the Council, the Commission and the Member States.