Infant Foods: Labelling
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether her department has objected to the May 2026 Codex circular letter covering labelling standards for emergencies, on the grounds that it should not be applied to baby products.
Answered by Stephen Morgan
The UK did not object to the food labelling provisions in emergencies guidelines via circular letter. Defra engaged actively throughout the Codex process, working with Members to strengthen consumer protection. The UK secured clarification that any temporary, justified labelling flexibilities may only be applied by competent authorities and must not introduce risks to consumers, particularly vulnerable groups such as infants.
The agreed draft represents a balanced compromise reached by consensus, with no outstanding reservations from Codex Members on the final text. Competent authorities of Codex Members can already grant temporary flexibilities during emergencies; these guidelines provide a framework for their consistent and appropriate application.
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