Defra's new guidance states that fresh produce grown and packed in Gaza, the West Bank and the Golan Heights does not need a country of origin stated on the label. 'In the particular circumstances of the occupied territories, HMI will not be insisting on a country of origin and will accept that the name of the territory is sufficient to inform the consumer of the origin of the product,' Defra announced in a statement.

This is an exception to EU law for stating country of origin on labels of fresh fruit and vegetables that are subject to marketing standards regulations as it more accurately informs shoppers of exactly where the produce is from.

Apart from the information for consumers issue, EU authorities have also been aware since last year that Israel has been exporting produce to the EU as Israeli when it in fact originated from the occupied territories. Such products should not, according to the EU, benefit from preferential treatment under the EU/Israel Association Agreement.

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