Q: What is the Beef Labelling Scheme?
A: Following the BSE problems with Beef an initiative was launched by the EC to improve public confidence in the labelling of Beef products. This resulted in the European Directive 820/97. The Voluntary Beef Labelling Scheme in the UK is an enactment of the European Directive and came into effect from 1 July 1998.
Q: Which information do I need to get approved?
A: The information you will need approval for can include where the animal was born and reared, age or sex of the animal and date and method of slaughter. If you are not sure whether you need approval for the information you provide, please contact the Beef Labelling department in SEERAD/DEFRA for confirmation.
Q: What is SFQC’s role?
A: SFQC is recognised by the government as an independent verifier for the Beef Labelling scheme. SFQC have the competency to carry out audits of the entire supply chain from farm to slaughter house, through cutting plants and depots to stores and individual retail outlets. The audits are designed to verify traceability at each link in the chain from farm to retail outlet providing assurance that the claims made on the retail packs are accurate and meet the requirements of the Beef Labelling scheme.