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EU sulphur clarification

Published:  23 July, 2008

At the request of the Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA), Comit Vins, the European trade association for wine, has sought legal advice that provides clarification on the EU Directive on Allergens (D 2003/89/EC), which comes into effect on 25 November 2005.

The advice stipulates: In accordance with the EU labelling regulation for wine - which is binding on all member states - the indication of the presence of sulphites is to be given in one or more official Community languages chosen by the operator and comprehensible to a reasonably well-informed consumer.

With a view to further comprehension by the consumer, it should be accompanied by the reference E220.'

John Corbet-Milward, head of technical and international affairs at the WSTA, added: Although it could be argued that the addition of the term E220 is "gold plating" and may not be acceptable in some member states, its inclusion could facilitate the movement of products from one EU member state to another.'

With regard to any issues related to liability, Comit Vins asserts that national trade associations will support operators and legally assist them in the event of a dispute before domestic courts or before the European Court of Justice.

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