Food enthusiasts have been left perplexed after the European Union has announced a ban on smoky bacon crisps, which could potentially cause “major economic harm”. This unusual announcement comes after the beloved artificial flavour was linked to potential health risks.
The 27 member states approved the ban at the end of April, with the smoke flavourings expected to be phased out over the next two years. Pro-EU publications emphasised that the ban was not necessary, with ministers criticising the “ham-fisted move”.
Some view this decision as a reversal of the bloc’s pre-Brexit promises. A report from the European Commission suggests that potential cancer risks are associated with the methods used to extract the flavour, although snack manufacturers dispute these claims, arguing there is no evidence linking the process to cancer.
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The ban is anticipated to have significant economic consequences, particularly for Ireland’s farming sector. The flavour is popular on both sides of the Irish Sea, and the Irish farming sector could face a £26billion impact due to the ban.
The Kerry Group, a significant player in the Irish food industry, warned that the decision could cause serious problems, with up to 40 percent of the ham and bacon sold in Ireland relying on the disputed flavouring method, reports the Mirror.
Ex-Tory Minister Kevin Foster has slammed the decision, stating to The Sun: “At a time when war is returning to Europe and serious economic challenges face us all, it is hard to believe anyone would think this ham-fisted move is a sensible one. This will leave many scratching their heads.”
High-profile Brexit campaigners have also warned about the decision, including ex-Prime Minister Boris Johnson. He had earlier indicated that Brussels might next turn its sights on other popular crisp flavours like prawn cocktail.
Research by Perspectus Global revealed Bacon Frazzles’ popularity with British crisp lovers, ranking seventh in the country’s favourite savoury snacks.
Ellie Glason of Perspectus Global said, “Brits are a nation of crisp lovers, so we thought it would be interesting to see which brands and flavours we love the most. It’s great to see that while more modern snacks such as Pringles and Doritos are popular, we clearly still love many of our childhood favourites.”
With the EU intending to proceed with its ban on smoky bacon crisps, it has sparked considerable controversy and alarm, leaving many in the UK and Ireland questioning the logic behind altering their beloved snacks so drastically.