State animal husbandry labelling: Extended transition period comes into force
This gives the federal states, which enforce and monitor the law, more time to implement it, so that mandatory animal husbandry labeling functions properly from day one. Food business operators will also be given more leeway to implement the new labeling in practice.
The government's animal husbandry labeling system provides information about the type of husbandry used to produce the meat. It creates transparency and clarity at a glance. Consumers can thus make informed purchasing decisions and consciously choose between different animal husbandry systems. At the same time, mandatory labeling makes farmers' efforts to improve animal welfare visible.
Background:
Animal husbandry labeling distinguishes between five types of husbandry: stable, stable+space, fresh-air stable, outdoor/pasture, and organic. It initially applies to fresh pork produced in Germany. This applies to both pre-packaged and non-pre-packaged products in food retailers, butcher shops, and online retailers. Food from abroad can be labeled voluntarily. The obligation to use animal husbandry labeling was originally scheduled to take effect on August 1, 2025. This deadline has now been extended to March 1, 2026. Voluntary labeling before March 1, 2026, remains possible.
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