Multinational food companies are selling different versions of the same brands in different European countries, with those in eastern Europe containing cheaper and sometimes harmful ingredients
Drinks, juices, coffee, sweets, chocolate and babyfood, from brands including Pepsi-Cola, Sprite, Nestea and Danone, have been named in the allegations. The Czech Republic has now protested to the EU over the practice, which is not illegal (as long as the ingredients are correctly listed on the pack), but which is said to be unethical and to violate principles of equity across the EU.
A Czech TV channel carried out an investigation which found that a branded yoghurt was coloured with beetroot in Austria but insect-derived carmine in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, while a margarine contained 20% water in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, but not in Austria.
More seriously, while most western European manufacturers have reduced their use of hydrogenated oils and dangerous transfats, these were still found to be in use in versions of products in eastern Europe.
The Czech Republic would like to see consumer protection rules extended to prevent what they see as misleading behaviour by food manufacturers.
Read about Sustain's campaign work for healthier diets here.
Published Friday 27 May 2016
Sustain: Sustain The alliance for better food and farming advocates food and agriculture policies and practices that enhance the health and welfare of people and animals, improve the working and living environment, enrich society and culture and promote equity.
