World apple bosses are calling for a delay on the introduction of new European marketing standards.
The World Apple & Pear Association wants more time to carry out further research. It said the revised EU marketing standard would have two key implications for the European market - to reduce minimum fruit sizes marketed within the EU and exported, and to introduce maturity criteria to ensure only ripe fruit enters the market.
The existing marketing standard has been in operation for more than 30 years. Research carried out by WAPA members in Belgium and Italy highlighted variations in fruit maturity between the two countries and among various varieties. WAPA said the introduction of a new standard should be delayed for at least three years.
Jacques Vanoye, pictured, outgoing president, said: “We need more time to work with research on fruit maturity and subsequently work with regulators to elaborate robust maturity criteria.
“Only in this way will these criteria ensure the consumer receives a satisfactory product.”
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