Food policy has once again stirred controversy in Brussels, with French cheese makers expressing concern over the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) proposed by the European Union. The potential phase-out of single-use packaging in favor of recycled materials puts one of France’s culinary treasures, Camembert cheese, in jeopardy. The proposed law could ban the use of the distinctive wooden boxes in which Camembert is traditionally sold, eliciting concerns from the agricultural community and adding fuel to the perception of an out-of-touch EU. With European elections looming, it’s crucial for policymakers to prioritize impactful legislation that addresses pressing issues.
The Flawed Prominence of Food Policy:
Critics argue that policymakers in Brussels often overlook genuine concerns and instead focus on controversial food policies that have far-reaching consequences. A longstanding debate surrounds the harmonization of Front-of-Pack (FOP) nutritional labels, with the Nutri-Score system facing criticism and several countries banning its use. Farmers worry that this label’s demonization of heritage foods could harm their livelihoods. Brussels must avoid repeating history by adopting questionable policies, such as the proposed recycling law, further alienating European agricultural producers.
Environmental and Economic Doubts:
The PPWR aims to ensure that all packaging put on the market is recyclable by 2030, necessitating the establishment of robust recycling chains. While European Commission officials contend that wooden packaging, including Camembert boxes, would remain permissible but must be made more recyclable, producers argue that setting up a wood recycling chain would be logistically and economically burdensome. Experts question why wood is targeted when it poses minimal environmental impact compared to alternatives, such as plastic. Endangering an entire industry appears unjustifiable for such a marginal environmental gain.
Implications for Jobs and Companies:
The proposed legislation threatens the livelihoods of approximately 2,000 employees and the existence of 45 companies. With France’s unemployment rate on the rise, the risk to jobs and companies adds further urgency to the matter. Though the proposal may exempt Camemberts with protected designated origin labels, such cheeses constitute a small portion of the market. Leading producers emphasize that the wooden boxes are not merely packaging but integral to the aging and maturation process. This issue extends beyond AOP Camemberts, affecting non-AOP varieties as well.
Preserving Cultural Heritage:
European food carries immense cultural and historical significance, with recipes and production methods passed down through generations. The proposed legislation, just like Nutri-Score, jeopardizes prized products rooted in tradition and community, such as Camembert and jamon serrano. Food represents more than mere sustenance in Europe; it embodies the tapestry of European life, diversity, and heritage.
Implications for European Elections:
Brussels needs to realize that policies conflicting with Europe’s cultural heritage rarely resonate with voters. The PPWR regulation has the potential to devastate an entire industry, jeopardize thousands of jobs, and leave a negative impression on voters just before they head to the polls. As the elections approach, it is crucial for policymakers to consider the wider implications and understand the importance of preserving Europe’s cultural and culinary heritage when crafting new legislation.
The proposed EU recycling law, with its potential ban on wooden packaging used for Camembert, raises concerns about cultural heritage and employment across Europe. As policymaking often misses the mark on citizens’ priorities, it is imperative for Brussels to focus on impactful legislation that addresses genuine problems. Prioritizing the preservation of European culinary traditions, community, and diversity will resonate with voters and reinforce the shared identity that underpins the European Union.
Market Capital Research 