Boterwet

Boterwet is a Dutch term that translates to "Butter Law". It refers to a series of laws and regulations in the Netherlands that govern the production, sale, and distribution of butter. The Boterwet is part of the larger framework of food law in the Netherlands, which is designed to ensure the safety and quality of food products.

History

The Boterwet has its roots in the 19th century, when the Dutch government began to regulate the dairy industry. The law was initially introduced to combat the widespread problem of butter adulteration, where unscrupulous producers would mix butter with cheaper substances to increase their profits. Over time, the Boterwet has evolved to address a range of issues related to butter production, including hygiene standards, labeling requirements, and the use of additives.

Provisions

The Boterwet sets out a number of specific provisions for the production and sale of butter. These include:

• Quality Standards: The law establishes minimum quality standards for butter, including fat content and moisture levels. Producers must adhere to these standards or face penalties.

• Labeling Requirements: The Boterwet requires that all butter products be clearly labeled with information such as the producer's name and address, the date of production, and the ingredients used.

• Hygiene Regulations: The law also sets out hygiene regulations for butter production facilities, including requirements for equipment cleanliness and employee health and safety.

Enforcement

Enforcement of the Boterwet is carried out by the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA), which conducts regular inspections of butter production facilities. Producers found to be in violation of the law can face a range of penalties, including fines and the seizure of non-compliant products.

See also

• Food law
• Dairy industry in the Netherlands
• Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority