Food Fraud – A Priority for EU Food Law

Abstract Adulterated wine, mislabeling of foodstuffs, dilution of olive oil – these are just a few examples of the widespread issue of food fraud. This article critically examines the EU’s legal framework for combating food fraud, revealing its shortcomings and proposing concrete solutions. The study begins by defining the concept of food fraud and analyzing key EU legal instruments, including Regulation 178/2002 and Regulation 2017/625, highlighting the lack of harmonized implementation and enforcement across Member States. Through a comparative analysis, it also emphasizes the urgent need for harmonization and stronger regulatory measures. By exposing gaps in the current framework, this research advocates for a dedicated EU legislative act to tackle food fraud effectively. It underscores the role of emerging technologies, international cooperation, and targeted reforms as essential tools for addressing this issue. Ultimately, the article seeks to advance the discourse on food fraud and provide a robust foundation for impactful legislative and policy changes.