Press Release: Fischler welcomes adoption of chocolate directive: ‘Now consumers have the choice’

Franz Fischler, Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development and Fisheries, welcomed the Council decision of 25.5.00 to adopt the chocolate Directive: 'The Council agreement strikes a fair balance between consumers, producers and traders, and between developed and developing countries. The Directive had given rise to all sorts of criticism, notably that it would lead to lower quality and have a negative impact on cocoa-producing developing countries. It is appropriate to set the record straight'. This Directive will give the consumer a choice by offering clear, comprehensive labelling in order to distinguish pure cocoa-based chocolate from other types of chocolate. It will enhance the quality of chocolate by setting a minimum cocoa content and a minimum standard to protect the name 'chocolate'. By introducing a complete list of authorised ingredients, it will allow manufacturers to produce their traditional chocolate, either using only cocoa butter, or adding vegetable fats, and will enable 'pure' chocolate producers to take advantage of what many consumers regard as a superior product. Furthermore it will promote the free movement of goods within the EU, which is not the case under the current Directive.