Clean label products have been in existence for many years in Europe and have recently become far more widespread thanks to increased demand for transparency and simplicity in the labelling of foodstuffs. In Romania, an increasing number of consumers are also switching to clean label products, prompted by increase concern for food quality in terms of its effect on health.

However, they have only recently gained a foothold in the Romanian charcuterie sector, having been adopted by just one producer because of the higher cost of producing healthy food. Where fewer additives and synthetic substances are used, it is necessary to replace then with natural substances at greater cost to producers.

What leverage does the Commission have when it comes to supporting and encouraging Romanian businesses to produce healthier clean label food, in line with the preferences recently being shown by Romanian consumers?