Commission Directive 91/71/EEC

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Commission Directive 91/71/EEC was a legislative act of the European Union (EU) aimed at harmonizing the laws, regulations, and administrative provisions of the Member States concerning certain substances used in the manufacture of foodstuffs. This directive was part of the EU's broader effort to ensure the free movement of goods within the internal market while maintaining a high level of protection for human health and consumer interests.

Background

The European Union has long been committed to the harmonization of food safety standards among its Member States. This commitment is rooted in the principle of ensuring a high level of health protection, consumer safety, and the free movement of goods within the internal market. Prior to the adoption of Commission Directive 91/71/EEC, there were significant disparities among Member States regarding the use and regulation of certain substances in foodstuffs, which could potentially hinder trade and pose risks to public health.

Objectives

The primary objective of Commission Directive 91/71/EEC was to harmonize the regulations concerning the use of certain substances in the manufacture of foodstuffs across the Member States. By establishing a common set of rules, the directive aimed to:

• Facilitate the free movement of foodstuffs within the internal market.
• Ensure a high level of protection for consumers' health.
• Eliminate disparities in national regulations that could impede trade within the EU.

Key Provisions

Commission Directive 91/71/EEC set out specific provisions regarding the use of certain substances in foodstuffs, including:

• The types of substances that could be used in the manufacture of foodstuffs.
• The conditions under which these substances could be used.
• The labeling requirements for foodstuffs containing these substances.

The directive also provided for the establishment of a committee to assist the European Commission in matters related to the implementation and amendment of the directive, ensuring that the regulations could be adapted in response to scientific and technical progress.

Impact

The adoption of Commission Directive 91/71/EEC represented a significant step towards the harmonization of food safety standards within the EU. By establishing a common set of rules for the use of certain substances in foodstuffs, the directive facilitated the free movement of goods and ensured a high level of protection for consumers across the Member States. Furthermore, the directive contributed to the creation of a more integrated and efficient internal market, promoting economic growth and development within the EU.

See Also

• Food safety
• European Union law
• Internal market (European Union)
• Consumer protection