The well-being of the entire food chain must be safeguarded within the EU, and the different conditions in various member states must be taken into account, says Marika Säynevirta, Senior EU-policy advisor at the Finnish Food and Drink Industries’ Federation.
The significance of the food sector in Europe is often overlooked, yet it is an industry that quite literally keeps people fed. Another key aspect is the high proportion of SMEs within the sector.
– EU policies and discussions have often focused on primary production or, on the other hand, consumer interests. Now, food-related issues have been highlighted in a new way in the work of the new Commission. This also helps recognize the role of the food industry in enabling growth, sustainability, and food security, Säynevirta states.
From now on, the Commissioner for Agriculture will hold the title Commissioner for Agriculture and Food. In September 2024, a comprehensive report on the future of agriculture was published, with strong involvement from various stakeholders in the food chain.
– The hope is that moving forward, the well-being of the entire food chain and its ability to maintain and develop a competitive and resilient food system will be more carefully considered. Every initiative and proposal must take the entire value chain into account, Säynevirta emphasizes.
A call for clarity
The majority of regulations affecting the sector come from the EU. Both agricultural and industrial policies at the EU level have a significant impact on food sector operators in Finland.
– Everything is linked to the EU. It sets a broad political framework as well as highly detailed rules on how food can be produced, packaged, and labeled.
According to Säynevirta, it is crucial for the Finnish and European food sector to establish clear and common objectives for the new EU term while maintaining sufficient flexibility in their implementation.
The food industry must be recognized as part of the upcoming clean industry program. Instead of restrictions and penalties, incentives and support mechanisms are needed to achieve the objectives.
– Without the food industry, there would be no food for consumers, no food security, and no supply resilience. The vitality of the entire chain is critically important for all of Europe.
Finland has long embraced best practices in the food chain, including animal welfare, food safety (such as zero tolerance for salmonella), minimal use of plant protection products, raw material traceability, and incentives for producers to adopt sustainability measures.
– Finland must now take an active role in promoting the sharing of best practices across the EU!
No penalties for pioneers
Future regulations must acknowledge both the best practices already in place in different countries and the varying starting points across member states.
– Finland should work to ensure that regulations are not overly detailed and universally applied, such as requiring a 30 per cent reduction in something when some countries have already done nearly everything possible, Säynevirta stresses.
There are huge differences in conditions across Europe. Finland’s circumstances for food production are vastly different from those in Southern Europe.
– Our northern location limits the growing season. Logistical connections to the rest of Europe are limited, and our sparse population and long distances increase costs. Additionally, our geopolitical position and current global situation highlight the importance of food security, Säynevirta explains.
– Flexibility within the regulatory framework is absolutely essential for us.
A message to Brussels
Finland’s leadership in many areas of the food sector is starting to gain recognition in Brussels. The country ranks among the top in sustainability efforts though there is still work to be done.
– Now, knowledge must be turned into action. Finland has a lot to offer as Europe builds the food production systems of the future.
According to Säynevirta, the EU must conduct more thorough impact assessments when drafting legislation. Stakeholder input must be taken into account more carefully, and the food sector’s ability to invest and innovate must be safeguarded.
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