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<p>There are no current plans to introduce a legal definition of the term ‘vegetarianism’,
but the use of this and indeed any term on food, whether retailed from a shop or on
a menu for out-of-home sale, must not be misleading to consumers.</p><p> </p><p>The
term ‘suitable for vegetarians’ is used voluntarily by the food industry. There is
no legal requirement to describe a product as either suitable or unsuitable for vegetarians.</p><p>
</p><p>The fundamental principle of food labelling rules is that information provided
to the consumer must not mislead and must enable the safe use of food. These rules
mean that manufacturers, retailers and caterers should be able to demonstrate that
where foods are presented as 'vegetarian' reasonable steps have been taken to avoid
cross-contamination with non-vegetarian foods during storage, preparation, cooking
or display.</p><p>Defra and the FSA will continue to work with businesses and consumers
to ensure everyone can make safe and informed choices when purchasing items labelled
as ‘vegetarian’.</p>
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