A six-month extension has been granted for the implementation of a livestock labeling system in Germany, giving federal states and food industry players more time to adapt. The move, announced by the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture, aims to provide a smoother transition.
The labeling system, which was initially set to take effect on August 1, 2025, will now come into force on March 1, 2026. The system, which identifies the rearing conditions of animals from which meat comes, is intended to increase transparency. “A mandatory livestock labeling must function flawlessly from the very first day” said Agriculture Minister Alois Rainer, highlighting the need for extra time for the states to implement and monitor the system.
The labeling system distinguishes between five rearing forms: stall, stall with outdoor access, free-range, grazing and organic. Initially, it will apply to fresh pork meat produced in Germany, covering both pre-packaged and non-pre-packaged products in the retail and online sectors. Food products from abroad can opt to be labeled voluntarily.
The original deadline of August 1, 2025, has been pushed back to March 1, 2026, with a voluntary labeling option still available before the new deadline. The Agriculture Conference had requested the extension of the transition period.