EU food and feed simplification must work for the whole food chain

Earlier today, the European Commission published their latest food and feed simplification package. For a package intended to simplify food and feed safety rules, it doesn't go far enough.

While there are a few welcome measures for food and drink manufacturers, Europe's largest manufacturing industry, the 'middle of the chain' remains largely overlooked in this legislative package. We need a stronger commitment to cutting red tape where it matters for the food and drink industry.

If this package cannot deliver that, we call on EU leaders to show political commitment to prioritise a comprehensive Food Omnibus in early 2026 to ease regulatory pressure and boost competitiveness for Europe's food and drink makers.

Simplification must take a food systems approach that spans all relevant Commission Directorate-Generals and EU agencies like EFSA, with a view to supporting competitiveness, stimulating investment in innovation, enhancing food chain resilience, and maintaining consumer confidence and safety. Regulatory simplification specifically, should help Europe's food and drink makers continue to deliver safe, sustainable, and affordable food and drink.

For a full list of FoodDrinkEurope's simplification recommendations for our sector, please see our submission to the Call for Evidence on the food/feed simplification package.