European experts discuss the implementation of the optional quality term « mountain product »

On the occasion of the advisory group on quality on October 16th, experts discussed with the European Commission the calendar and rules of implementation of the optional quality term « mountain product ». Formal approval of the regulation, which will apply automatically in the 27 member states, should be finalised end of 2012-early 2013.

On the basis of the on-going study, DG AGRI should decide to prepare implementing rules regarding at least location of processing places and origin of animal feed. Implementing acts should be published no sooner than 6 months after publication of the general regulation. Experts discussed the weaknesses of the optional quality term in terms of protection and the potential opportunities for promotion of mountain food products.

The outcomes of the debate show that this new regulation is only a first –though valuable- step towards better valorisation of mountain foods. We will need a strong commitment to progress towards a full efficient protection and promotion in the future.

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