Labelling requirements at import point for regulated fresh produce consignments
Statistical information gathered on refusal notices issued for regulated fresh produce at the import point over the past two years shows that 70% of the action taken has been for labeling defects. We wish to work with importers and agents to focus on this problem and bring about an improvement in compliance. As Horticultural Marketing Inspections are based on risk analysis, improvement in compliance will result in reductions in enforcement inspections.
With effect from 11th September 2006, Horticultural Marketing Inspections carried out by inspectors at Import point will be focusing particularly on the enforcement of the labeling requirements of the Marketing Standards.
Where a consignment is deficient in Class, Country of Origin, Commodity (where the contents are not visible from the outside of the box) Variety (where this is a requirement of the standard) or Packer Identity and Address, this will result in an immediate issue of a Refusal of Entry Notice (HCG 3) against the consignment concerned.
Where any other aspect of the labeling regulations are missing, the Importer will on the first occasion of the omission, receive notification that on this occasion the consignment will not be refused entry, but the defect will be noted on HMI IT systems. Subsequent consignments, if showing the same defect, will be refused entry and an HCG 3 issued. The only exception to this will be where consignments are already packed and 'on the water' and cannot be changed.
I would like to stress that this approach is not as a result of a “new” regulation or revised piece of legislation. These requirements regarding the accurate labeling of fresh produce have been part of the regulations in one form or another for at least the past 30 years.
This announcement is being made in order to give importers time to inform their exporters of the line to be taken on labeling from the 11th September 2006 and to ensure that the labelling requirements for each commodity subject to the standards are being complied with. A shorter version of this letter will be placed on the PEACH Log on pages. We would be grateful if you brought this information to the attention of members of your organisation or company.
The labeling requirements for each commodity subject to the
Marketing Standards are available for reference.
If you have any questions in respect of the labelling requirements please contact your local
Inspection Delivery Manager .
Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.
Tony Crouch
Head of Branch C, RPA Inspectorate
Horticultural Marketing Inspections
Page published: 12 February 2009