Poor uptake of Irish bacon label
Agriculture Minister Mary Coughlan launched the new label in October, enabling consumers to choose Bord Bia quality assured Irish products. "It is clear that while Irish producers offer the consumer quality, safe and traceable product at a fair price, Irish processors and retailers continue to scour across Europe and beyond for pork and bacon product, and are then afraid to declare its origin when it is presented to the consumer," said IFA Pigs Committee Chairman, Pat O'Keeffe.
He said the introduction of the 'Origin Ireland' logo was the culmination of a major effort by producers in this country to get recognition for the origin and quality of their product, while providing essential consumer information. "Unfortunately, the next links in the supply chain, at processor and retail level, are placing little or no value on this commitment," said Mr O'Keeffe.
