Ministry of Agriculture: most producers of cheese and ice cream are ready for labeling since June 1

‘Most producers of cheese and ice cream are ready to produce labeled products since June 1,’ the report says.

As the ministry reminded, at the initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Russian Federation, changes were made to the labeling rules for goods produced before June 1. This measure will ensure a smooth transition of the industry to the new system and minimize possible risks, believe in the Ministry of Agriculture.

The ministry also noted that the stocks of these products on the Russian market are estimated as sufficient to meet the needs of the population. Thus, the Ministry of Agriculture of Russia does not expect an increase in prices or a shortage of cheeses and ice cream after the entry into force of the requirements for mandatory labeling.

At the same time, the Ministry considers it necessary to continue the joint work of the industry enterprises, the CATD and the Ministry of Industry and Trade in terms of solving technical issues during the implementation of this system, the work of printing houses and the supply of appropriate equipment.

Earlier, the company Unilever, which produces ice cream Inmarco, announced that it could suspend the production of ice cream for 10 days due to the introduction of mandatory labeling since June 1, 2021.

During 2021, mandatory labeling of dairy products will be gradually introduced: since June 1 - for cheeses and ice cream, since September 1 - for products with a shelf life of more than 40 days, since December 1 - for products with a shorter shelf life. Farmers who sell their own products have been granted a deferral until December 1, 2022, and a proposal is being considered to extend the deferral to all peasant farm holdings. Labeling will not be introduced for dairy products weighing less than 30 grams, as well as for children's and special food.