After the recent kebab scandal, food origin labeling is a big topic again. Now the head of the Agriculture Chamber is once again pushing for more transparency on our plate, thus supporting a long-standing demand of the “Krone”.
“Those who are always looking for the cheapest – regardless of where it comes from and against what production standards – will find spoiled meat, salmonella and animal suffering,” said the head of the Agriculture Chamber, Josef Moosbrugger, in a broadcast on Monday. . The scandal speaks “in favor of increased mandatory origin labeling in as many areas as possible. Also with processed products and later also in the catering industry”.
Ride victory with aftertaste
From September there will be an origin label in municipal catering establishments such as canteens in hospitals, nursing homes or schools. Then the sources of basic foods such as milk, meat and eggs must be clearly stated. Restaurants, inns and snack bars are still exempt from this obligation.
At the request of the people
But that’s exactly what the “Krone” and its readers have long been asking for. For Tierecke manager Maggie Entenfellner, this has been a long time coming: “It is a personal concern of mine to strengthen the products of our farmers. Our stated goal should be that there will be a national labeling obligation throughout Austria.” Politically, however, the waves are rising on this issue – the Greens want it, the People’s Party – especially the Economic Association – is against it.
Switzerland as a role model
The chief treasurer of agriculture and the ÖVP farmers’ union is behind his guild and against the interests of some of his party. In clear terms, he pleads for a far-reaching labeling obligation – both in the catering industry and in the supermarkets. Switzerland has had one for years. “If some restaurateurs vehemently oppose further steps in origin labelling, one should ask what anonymity means and what should remain hidden,” says Moosbrugger aggressively. “The claim of regional quality would be in the interest of consumers and farmers.”
Farmers fight
Agricultural expert Hannes Royer of the association “Land creates life” also has no understanding for the hard struggle for a good cause: “I often hear the argument that the bureaucratic effort is not reasonable for restaurateurs. What if the Chamber of Commerce had done their duty here? and have supported the catering industry in the implementation instead of just blocking it vehemently? But then there is of course the manslaughter argument, according to which Austrian food production is not sufficient to supply all local catering establishments. Now what?
The labeling obligation does not mean that food from other countries can no longer be sold – you just have to write on the card where it comes from. If you then read “Chicken meat from Poland” there, one or the other will probably consider whether they really want it. In my view, however, this is anything but a disadvantage, given recent events.”
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
