Canary Islands Poultry Meat Labeling Transparency Measures

Overview

The Canary Islands government has announced a new measure to boost the credibility and transparency of poultry meat labeling.

The resolution delegates the control and certification duties for voluntary labeling claims—such as production methods, animal welfare, and feeding practices—to accredited certification bodies. This move aims to streamline oversight, ensure independent inspections, and maintain high standards in the region's poultry sector.

Certification and Standards

• Operators using voluntary labels must work with approved certification organizations.
• Certification bodies must meet strict standards, including international norms like ISO/IEC 17065.
• These organizations will perform regular controls and report findings to the Canary Islands Institute of Agricultural Quality (ICCA).
• Certification bodies are expected to uphold principles of impartiality and technical competence.

Oversight and Compliance

"The ICCA will oversee this delegation through audits and checks, retaining the authority to revoke certifications if operators fail to comply."

• The ICCA will conduct audits and checks.
• It retains the authority to revoke certifications for non-compliance.

Transitional Period and Implementation

• Certification bodies have a transitional period of up to a year to gain accreditation.
• During this period, provisional permissions may be granted.

Benefits and Goals

• Enhances the market’s integrity.
• Provides consumers with more reliable information.
• Ensures that public resources are used efficiently.
• Aligns regional practices with European-wide standards.
• Reinforces the Canary Islands' commitment to quality in agricultural products.