Paris, 25 Nov 2002: Thousands of French farmers have been blockading food warehouses, as a protest at being "strangled" by supermarkets driving down producer prices.
Retailers reported sporadic signs of disruption as striking truckers began erecting roadblocks, but company officials and analysts said today that it would be several days before blockades really hit the sector.
Food manufacturers may be intentionally mangling the Government's message about eating five portions of fruit and vegetables a day, as a marketing tactic designed to confuse consumers.
A report to be published this week suggests that food such as tinned spaghetti, fruit drinks and soup are all being given promotional labels suggesting that they are as healthy and nutritious as fresh fruit or vegetables, despite containing large quantities of salt or sugar.
The Food Standards Agency has issued formal guidance to the food industry on the labelling they should use to make it easier for people to understand where their food comes from.
The guidance makes clear that origin labelling of processed products must not mislead as to the origin of the ingredients used. It also contains examples of best practice, to encourage industry to adopt more consistent and transparent labelling practices.
The aim of the Agency's new advice is to help manufacturers, producers, retailers and caterers comply with the law and provide additional voluntary information in a way that is helpful to consumers.
London, 25 Nov 2002: Two initiatives to help farmers improve their environmental performance were launched today at the Royal Smithfield Show.
The event sees the launch of online guidelines for farmers, to help them comply with their environmental responsibilities without having to contact the regulator. The site covers everything from agricultural waste and emissions to water, to disposal of animal carcasses and fuel storage.
New Labour's dependence on the voluntary principle is damaging the environment, society and UK competitiveness, says a new report from Forum for the Future.
Government's Business argues that the UK Government's over-reliance on voluntary measures is damaging efforts to achieve sustainable development.
London, 25 Nov 2002: Nearly 60% of apples on sale in most major supermarkets at the height of the British growing season are imported, a Friends of the Earth survey reveals. The survey found a significant mark-up at checkouts on the price received by apple growers. Greengrocers and market stalls offer shoppers cheaper apples and sell a larger percentage of British produce than supermarkets.
