Post-Brexit EU Deal Could Force Marmalade Relabelling as 'Citrus Marmalade'
Marmalade may need to be relabelled under a proposed post-Brexit food deal with the European Union, as part of the government's efforts to slash red tape and reduce trade friction with the bloc. The spread would have to be sold as "citrus marmalade" if the agreement, which would see Britain readopt EU food regulations to boost trade, goes ahead.
EU Labelling Rules Update
The name change is reportedly required because the EU is relaxing its labelling rules to widen the legal definition of marmalade across Europe. Previous European regulations, incorporated into UK law before Brexit, stipulated that only preserves made from citrus fruits could be sold as "marmalade," while all other fruit spreads were classified as "jam."
However, following the UK's departure, Brussels has updated its rules, allowing all EU countries to label non-citrus spreads as "marmalade" from June. Meanwhile, citrus-based conserves will need to be marketed using the new legal name "citrus marmalade."
Sanitary and Phytosanitary Agreement
The food deal, officially known as the sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement, involves shared standards on animal and plant health. Sir Keir Starmer is currently preparing a bill that would grant ministers powers to align the UK with EU law, aiming to reduce paperwork and stimulate growth in Britain.
This bill, expected to be introduced this year, would provide ministers with overarching authority to bring the UK in line with EU regulations in areas such as:
- Food standards
- Animal welfare
- Pesticide use
This process, known as dynamic alignment, could be used to implement deals like the SPS agreement. Ministers argue that dynamic alignment would have minimal material impact, as UK food manufacturers have largely followed EU rules since Brexit. However, it is hoped to reduce expensive and time-consuming paperwork for suppliers exporting to the single market.
Concerns Over Sovereignty
Despite potential benefits, there are concerns that dynamic alignment could see the UK surrender control over its own laws. When the UK was an EU member, the government had a vote on new legislation from Brussels. Now, the UK would need to accept these laws without a vote to remain aligned with the trade bloc.
Government sources have indicated that under the SPS deal, the UK would have some ability to shape EU decision-making within the agreement's scope. They also noted that firms would need to adapt to the EU's labelling rules for exports regardless of the deal's approval.
Broader Context
This initiative is part of the government's wider plan to "reset" relations with Brussels after years of strained ties post-Brexit under successive Conservative governments. The Cabinet Office has been contacted for further comment on the implications of this proposed alignment.
