The final phase of post-Brexit food labelling requirements for products shipped from Great Britain to Northern Ireland has come into effect. The new rules extend "Not for EU" labels to cover eggs, fish, fruit and vegetables, some composite products and other items.
The labelling system forms part of the Windsor Framework and has been gradually introduced since 2023. Meat products have required the labels since October 2023, with dairy products following in October 2024.
Government expects deal to end labels
The Government believes the labels will become unnecessary once the UK and EU finalise a new agrifood deal. The labelling requirements exist under Windsor Framework rules to ensure goods are not moved onwards from Northern Ireland into the rest of the EU.
The Windsor Framework replaced the Northern Ireland Protocol and means the region must adhere to certain EU laws regarding goods. This creates the need for clear labelling to distinguish products intended for Northern Ireland's domestic market.
Business leaders criticise "bureaucratic madness"
The extension of labelling requirements has drawn criticism from major retailers. Stuart Machin, chief executive of Marks and Spencer, recently branded the system "bureaucratic madness" and said a new agrifood deal "can't come soon enough".
The Government does not expect any products to become unavailable in Northern Ireland due to the new labelling regulations. However, officials are preparing contingency measures to address any potential supply disruptions.
Contingency powers being finalised
The Government is shortly to finalise new contingency powers that could be deployed if the rules create adverse impacts. These powers would allow enforcement of "Not for EU" labelling across the whole of the UK, removing any incentive for suppliers not to send products to Northern Ireland.
The labelling system represents the latest phase in implementing post-Brexit trading arrangements between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The rules aim to balance Northern Ireland's access to both UK and EU markets while maintaining regulatory compliance.
(PA/London) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
