A traditional British breakfast favorite is set for a makeover following a recent agreement with the European Union. Marmalade, a cherished spread in the UK, may undergo a name change under a new food deal struck between the British government and the EU post-Brexit.
The potential new agreement with the EU could require the rebranding of the spread as “citrus marmalade” on supermarket shelves if the deal is finalized. Previously, EU regulations stipulated that only preserves made from citrus fruits could be labeled as marmalade before Brexit, with other fruit-based preserves classified as jams or equivalent terms in EU languages.
The issue of naming conventions became apparent in some EU countries, where words resembling marmalade were used for various non-citrus fruit spreads. Lobbying efforts in the 1970s led to stringent rules for marmalade, with the orange-based spread becoming synonymous with the UK, notably due to Paddington Bear’s affinity for marmalade sandwiches.
Following Brexit, Brussels has updated regulations regarding marmalade, allowing all EU countries to market non-citrus fruit spreads as marmalade starting in June. Consequently, marmalade made from citrus fruits, including oranges, will now be marketed as “citrus marmalade.”
The changes are set to take effect in Northern Ireland this summer as part of a framework agreement aligning the region’s food laws with EU standards. According to a spokesperson from the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), British marmalade remains unchanged, affirming that British manufacturers adhere to global standards to facilitate international trade.
The UK-EU deal aims to streamline trade processes and eliminate barriers for UK exporters. The agreement also ensures that the UK can influence industry regulations in its national interest, supporting businesses and fostering international trade partnerships.
