COPA-COGECA and FEFAC update the code of good practices for feed labelling

COPA-COGECA, the organisation representanting European farmers and their cooperatives, together with FEFAC, the European Feed Manufacturer’s Federation, have released an updated version of the “Code of Good Practice for Labelling Compound Feed for Food-Producing Animals”. This revision highlights the need to harmonise and modernize feed labelling practices across the European Union.

The updated guidelines provide detailed instructions for both mandatory and voluntary labelling requirements, ensuring fair and innovative competition within the agricultural sector, while addressing EU regulations on what information feed labels must include.

The document specifies that, in addition to mandatory information on feed composition, additives, shelf life, feed category, and usage instructions, manufacturers can also choose to provide voluntary information such as additional nutritional values, the environmental footprint, and specific product characteristics.

A significant new feature of this update is the inclusion of the Product Environmental Footprint Category Rules (PEFCR), a framework to measure and communicate the environmental impact of feed. The aims to enhance transparency in areas such as climate change, water use, eutrophication, and acidification.

The scope of the guidelines has also been extended to cover medicated feed, introducing specific requirements for the declaration of veterinary medicines included in the feed; usage instructions based on veterinary prescriptions; clear warning about residues and withdrawal periods.

The document explicitly states that certain animal by-products, such as fishmeal, blood meal, or non-ruminant processed animal proteins (PAPs), are permitted for use in aquaculture feed and fur animals. This provision ensures traceability and compliance with strict food safety standards.

For aquaculture feed labelling, the document outlines detailed requirements, including the declaration of specific ingredients like fishmeal. It also enforces clear restrictions on the use of particular additives or animal-derived materials designates for aquaculture purposes.

Regarding the acid-insoluble ash content, which is a critical parameter for fish feed, the guidelines stipulate that it must not exceed 2,2% on a dy matter basis, except for specific cases involving fishmeal or other relevant by-products for aquaculture.

Through these updated standards, COPA-COGECA and FEFAC aim to provide a robust framework that benefits aquaculture by ensuring clear labelling, compliance with environmental regulations, and the promotion of sustainable and safe practices in feed production.