EU greenlights enhanced feed labelling code

EUROPE – The European Commission’s standing committee on plants, animals, food, and feed (SCoPAFF) on animal nutrition has taken a decisive step toward sustainability by endorsing the upgraded Copa-Cogeca and FEFAC Code of Good Labelling Practices for compound feed. 

Following a comprehensive 12-month review, this endorsement signals a pivotal moment for the feed industry, emphasising transparency, environmental accountability, and the reduction of emissions in livestock farming.  

The revised code is a joint effort by Copa-Cogeca, the collective voice for European farmers and agricultural cooperatives, and FEFAC, representing compound feed and premix manufacturers across Europe. 

By aligning with the European Union’s proposed Green Claims Directive, the code provides a detailed framework for communicating the environmental performance of animal feed to farmers. 

Its primary focus lies in critical areas, including mitigating climate change, controlling eutrophication, and implementing livestock emissions abatement techniques.  

At the heart of the enhanced code is incorporating the Product Environmental Footprint Category Rules (PEFCR) for Feed for Food-Producing Animals. 

Supported by the Global Feed LCA Institute database, this methodology ensures a harmonised and scientifically robust approach to assessing and labelling the environmental impact of feed products. 

This approach facilitates consistency in reporting while addressing the environmental performance of feed products, including impacts on water use and biodiversity.  

FEFANA, an organisation representing the speciality feed ingredients sector in Europe, is aiding in the code’s development. 

Their input has helped shape clear, actionable recommendations for substantiating environmental claims tied to livestock emissions abatement techniques. 

This transparency enhances the credibility of environmental claims, allowing feed producers to represent their products’ ecological impacts accurately.  

One of the most significant advancements in the upgraded code is its alignment with Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions reporting requirements. 

By addressing 16 environmental impact categories, the code provides manufacturers with a roadmap to reduce their environmental footprint and contribute meaningfully to the EU’s sustainability objectives.

For livestock farmers, the updated labelling offers vital insights into feed products, empowering them to make informed and sustainable choices.  

The endorsement of the revised labelling code marks a milestone for the feed industry, showcasing its alignment with broader EU sustainability goals.

By integrating cutting-edge methodologies and fostering transparency, the sector is better positioned to address the pressing need for sustainable livestock and feed production. 

This harmonised approach supports the industry’s environmental aspirations and strengthens its commitment to reducing the emissions associated with feed and livestock production.  

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