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‘Smoky bacon’ crisps face ban under Andy Burnham Brexit reset deal
Developing story first seen 3 hours ago
New coverage highlights concerns from British food manufacturers that aligning with EU labelling rules could burden businesses, even as the agreement aims to reduce trade barriers. The proposed restrictions could force plant-based products to drop familiar meat-related names, including smoky bacon crisps, under a post-Brexit deal negotiated by Andy Burnham.
The EU proposal would ban 31 terms, including bacon, beef, chicken, steak and ribs, and is expected to take effect in three years. Most smoky bacon crisps use flavourings, so makers could rename them or add meat ingredients, raising costs and ending their vegetarian status; burgers and vegan sausage rolls are expected to be exempt. The Food and Drink Federation backs the wider deal’s potential to cut red tape, but warns businesses would have to follow European rules introduced since Brexit without a role in shaping them.
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In short
- Manufacturers warn EU alignment could burden British food businesses.
- Smoky bacon crisps may need new names under proposed rules.
- The restrictions could take effect in three years.
How this story developed
- 2 minutes ago EU labelling rules could force makers of plant-based foods to stop using meat-related names such as bacon, chicken and steak.
- 4 minutes ago New coverage highlights concerns from British food manufacturers that aligning with EU labelling rules could burden businesses, even as the agreement aims to reduce trade barriers.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters of aligning with EU rules argue that shared standards can reduce trade barriers and make it easier for food producers to sell across borders. Clearer naming rules may also help consumers distinguish plant-based products from meat, while still allowing manufacturers to rename affected items.
The case against
Critics argue that restricting familiar names such as “smoky bacon” could confuse shoppers and impose relabelling costs, despite many such crisps containing no meat. They may also object that Britain would follow rules it had no role in shaping, and that adding meat to preserve a name would remove vegetarian options.
Coverage · 2 sources
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