News
14 January 2016

SNE is concerned about ENVI Committee objection on the new rules on Baby foods

Specialised Nutrition Europe (SNE), representing manufacturers of specialised nutrition products in Europe, deeply regrets the objection on the Delegated Regulation on processed cereal-based food and baby food, approved today by members of the European Parliament’s Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety, and urges the Plenary session to reject this objection next week.

  • The draft Delegated Regulation completes a legal framework which will ensure a high level of food safety and guarantee strong consumer protection for young children.
  • Processed cereal-based food and baby food are the only foods whose nutritional composition is regulated in terms of carbohydrates (including sugars), lipids, protein and some micronutrients to meet specific needs of young children.
  • A Commission mandate will shortly be sent to enable the scientific review of the composition criteria of processed cereal-based food and baby food.

Despite the disappointing objection on the Delegated Regulation on Processed Cereal-based Food and Baby Food, SNE welcomes the adoption of the Delegated Regulations on Food for Special Medical Purposes, and Infant and Follow-on Formula.

  • The new rules on Food for Special Medical Purposes will complement the provisions of the Food for Specific Groups Regulation (EU 609/2013) to ensure appropriate requirements for the composition, labelling and communication of FSMPs, including those intended for infants. They are proportionate to the specificities of the FSMP category.
  • The new rules on Infant and Follow-on Formula strengthen current labelling provisions and will provide consumers with clear and factual information about products. The provisions adopted will protect breastfeeding and ensure a clear distinction between infant (0-6 months) and follow-on formula (6-12 months)

SNE looks forward to the formal adoption and implementation of these new rules that enable appropriate and safe nutrition for those vulnerable consumers across the EU.