The spirits sector has been an early pioneer and frontrunner in digital labelling in Europe. As part of our self-regulatory labelling commitment in 2019, we have embarked on an ambitious journey to provide ingredient lists and nutritional details via e-labels on a quickly increasing number of beverages. Digital labels, easily scannable with a smartphone, offer a clear and effective solution in a multilingual Internal Market. We encourage the Commission to establish clear guidelines on digital labelling as part of a future revision of the Food Information to Consumers (FIC) Regulation.
Our collaboration with the wine sector has led to the development of the U-Label by ScanTrust Platform which offers nutritional, health, and sustainability information in a marketing-free environment. The range of digital solutions providing safe and reliable consumer information is growing rapidly, and surveys show that consumers are ready for this shift (link to Appinio). Additionally, the transformation of barcodes into QR codes, driven by GS1 and envisaged to take place in 2027, is opening up even more opportunities for delivering comprehensive product information via e-labels.
The unique benefits of e-labels:
What’s NEXT? We need a coordinated approach to product information provided via digital means
spiritsEUROPE, along with 20 European trade associations representing a diverse range of industries and services—from small businesses to large companies—is calling on policymakers to adopt a coordinated approach to product information through digital means. This shift is in the best interest of consumers and economic operators, particularly SMEs.
A harmonised digital labelling framework across policy areas will enhance traceability, combat counterfeiting, and help unlock the global competitiveness of EU industries. Now is the time to modernize consumer information for everyone's benefit. A consistent, future-proof framework across all product categories is essential!
