Federal Council against explicit mention of insects in food

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Lucerne SVP National Councilor Franz Grüter launched the initiative. 53 council members – most of them from the SVP, but also FDP and center representatives – support his motion.

In support of his motion, Grüter argues that insect additives are now only labeled in the ingredients list and then in Latin. It should not be the case that consumers have to use the foreign dictionary to shop in the future.

In its statement on the initiative published on Thursday, the Bundesrat writes that the animal species must already be explicitly stated on the packaging – even if the insect is only used as an ingredient. In addition, it must be clearly stated on the label that this ingredient can provoke allergic reactions in people who are allergic to crustaceans and molluscs and their products, as well as to house dust mites.

According to the Federal Council, the introduction of additional labeling requirements could lead to trade barriers. It would also “create the impression that approved bugs are not as safe as other ingredients”, which is not true.

Under current legislation, three types of insects are currently allowed on the market: the mealworm, the house cricket and the migratory locust. Like the EU, Switzerland has allowed the use of partially defatted house cricket powder as food since the beginning of the year.

(SDA)

Source:Blick