France has relaxed regulations about labeling to help food processors get through a sudden shortage of sunflower oil caused by Russia’s war on Ukraine.
The conflict has disrupted supplies of sunflower oil, 80% of the world’s supply of which was produced by Russia and Ukraine. Prices for other edible oils have surged as demand cascades.
France’s ministry of economics announced April 26 that it will give food processors up to six months to change their ingredient labeling if they switch from sunflower oil. The new rule will not apply to formulation changes that introduce an allergy risk or that alter a claim like organic or non-GMO.
