EU breakfast rules: 'Marmelade' can be used again

The European Union is set to reinstate the traditional Austrian term 'Marmelade' for fruit preserves, ending a long-standing debate over breakfast product labeling. Starting Sunday, a wide range of fruit preserves can once again be marketed as 'Marmelade' across the EU.

Under previous EU law, the designation 'Marmelade' was strictly reserved for products made from citrus fruits. All other fruit preserves had to be labeled as 'Konfitüre,' the German term for jam. This distinction has been a point of contention, particularly in countries with strong traditions of fruit preserve making.

The change comes with the implementation of the so-called 'EU Breakfast Directive,' which has recently been transposed into national laws. This directive aims to harmonize food labeling regulations across member states, simplifying the market for both producers and consumers.

In addition to the 'Marmelade' ruling, the new legislation also introduces updated regulations for the marketing of honey. These changes are expected to further clarify labeling standards and potentially impact how honey products are presented to consumers throughout the EU.