The Directorate General which deals with Entreprise and Industry of the European Commission has launched on Monday 24 January a public consultation on the metrological requirements in pre-packaging .
This consultation aims at simplifying the rules for producers while at the same time, understanding consumer concerns about weight indications on all packed products.
The Commission wants to bring existing European laws (both at national and European levels) into two main directives that would be implemented in the 25 Member-States. That’s why they presented a proposal , titled Rules on nominal quantities for pre-packed products (repeal. direct. 75/106/EEC, 80/232/EEC, amend. direct. 76/211/EEC) which has been sent to the European Parliament as well as the European Council of Ministers. The issue will be discussed by the EP in May 2005.
The issues covered include indications such as the quantity, drained weight, desiccated products and alternative units.
All products are on stake, especially new products that do not fit with traditional product categories (eg mixtures of soft and alcoholic drinks, sweeteners sold in capsules, mixtures of yogurt, fruit and cheese, etc).
The only exception are wine, spirits, soluble coffee and white sugar.
Consumers, retailers and manufactures are invited to participate in the consultation, by filling in the online survey up to the 15 March 2005.
The results are due to be available during the first half of 2005.
