Smoky bacon crisps, steak-flavored crisps, and chicken Pot Noodles could be banned from UK supermarket shelves under new EU regulations that Britain is set to adopt. The proposed clampdown targets the use of meat-based descriptions for vegetarian and vegan products, according to a report by the Daily Mail.
The shift comes as part of a "Brexit reset" initiated by Andy Burnham, which involves the UK agreeing to follow EU laws on food and farming in exchange for the EU eliminating post-Brexit red tape on British food exports to the continent. This deal, slated for signing at a UK-EU summit on November 20, mandates "dynamic alignment" with EU rules, meaning the UK will adopt future regulations with limited influence.
Critics, such as Mark Francois, chairman of the European Research Group of Tory MPs, have voiced concerns, stating that the move contradicts the spirit of the Brexit vote. The EU's rationale for the new consumer laws is to "enhance transparency" and prevent consumer confusion, following lobbying from the livestock sector.
Under the planned regulations, while vegetarian burgers and sausages can still be marketed, 31 meat-related words, including "chicken," "bacon," "pork," and "steak," will be prohibited in product descriptions for vegetarian alternatives. Manufacturers will have a three-year grace period to clear existing stock before the ban takes effect, and the rules will apply to all companies, irrespective of their trade with the EU.
Beyond food labeling, the deal also touches upon other areas. The UK government is reportedly seeking an agreement on gene-edited crops, which are currently banned in the EU, and may face restrictions on certain pesticides outlawed by Brussels. Additionally, the UK is expected to commit to annual payments for infrastructure projects in less affluent EU states and potentially reduce tuition fees for EU students studying in the UK.
Burnham has emphasized the potential economic advantages of the deal, citing Treasury analysis that suggests easing food and farming exports to the EU could boost UK GDP by up to 0.4 percent, equivalent to £12 billion annually. However, this projection has been challenged by a report from the Growth Commission, which argues the figures are based on "flawed assumptions." The commission warns that long-term alignment with EU regulations could cost the UK £73 billion due to missed opportunities for adopting more competitive rules and potential damage to trade with non-EU countries.