|
|
|
New food to be all Greek to consumers
10 Oct 2003
Queensland olive producer Adam Moller believes his kalamata olives should bear the name of the region from which the variety originated. But the European Union has introduced new rules to stop producers in other countries using "geographical indications" to describe products produced outside original regions. Both Australia and the US will oppose the move through the World Trade Organisation.
As well as kalamata olives, products such as spanish onions, french onion dip, ceylon tea, swiss chocolate and fetta, cheddar, mozzarella and parmesan cheeses would have to be renamed under the EU rules. Countries outside Europe, including India, Thailand and Sri Lanka, are also considering lobbying the WTO for exclusive rights over their names on food and agricultural products.
Queensland's Primary Industries Minister, Henry Palaszczuk, says the state is likely to lose out significantly if the EU's move is successful. He said that stripping local produce of well-known names would make it confusing for consumers.
The Courier-Mail, 10/10/03, page 8.
|
|
