Legislative requirements for the labelling of dairy products in the European Union

Peter Zajac; Jozef Čapla

doi:10.5219/legestic.15

Authors

Peter Zajac Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Institute of Food Science, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia, Tel.: +421 37 641 4371
Jozef Čapla Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Institute of Food Science, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia, Tel.: +421 37 641 4371 https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9475-6359

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5219/legestic.15

Keywords:

dairy products, food labelling, European Union, milk, origin labelling, primary ingredient, allergen labelling, official controls

Abstract

The labelling of dairy products in the European Union is governed by a multi-layered legal framework combining horizontal food information rules, sector-specific market standards, hygiene requirements, and origin-related obligations. This article analyses the principal legislative requirements applicable to the labelling of milk and dairy products, with particular attention to mandatory food information, allergen communication, reserved dairy names, origin labelling, and the legal relevance of the concept of the primary ingredient. The article further examines recurring non-compliances identified in official control outputs across several EU Member States, particularly in the areas of undeclared milk allergens, incomplete mandatory particulars, misleading presentation, and origin-related ambiguity. The analysis is based on a qualitative review of EU legislation, official interpretative materials, and public outputs of competent authorities. The findings suggest that the legal framework itself is comprehensive, but practical compliance remains uneven due to the operational complexity of dairy supply chains, the legal sensitivity of dairy designations, and difficulties in implementing origin-related rules. The article concludes with recommendations for food business operators to strengthen compliance, traceability, and consumer protection in the dairy sector.

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