A survey has found that the existence of double standards in the quality of food exists in the European Union, it has been revealed.
The survey ordered by Sándor Fazekas, minister of Agriculture, found differences in composition of ingredients or sensory perception in one third of products tested.
Experts from the National Food Chain Safety Office checked the quality of products that are typically associated with the summer season. They tested products related to barbecuing, alcoholic and alcohol-free beverages, as well as fruit and vegetables.
Results found that products of different quality standards were evident in different markets, but does not extend to the entire food chain sector, and the phenomenon of double quality standards must be examined for each product.
The survey was also extended to the testing of imported fresh fruit and vegetable products. In some cases, the experts also carried out analytical tests as well as tests for the presence of residual plant protecting agents in the case of fruit. One third of the 39 products tested were below par.
The ministry of Agriculture has started the preparations for a consultation, the purpose of which is to acquaint itself with the recommendations of professional organizations regarding the resolution of the phenomenon of double food quality standards. The ministry states that they will continue to stand up for the interests of Hungarian consumers.