oekoreich research unmasks Italian imported goods in domestic supermarkets, producer confirms method, opposition warns of “underhanded play” by retailers
Vienna (OTS) – The information from an industry insider, whose credibility has been verified several times but who wishes to remain anonymous for fear of repression, has been extensively researched by the citizens’ initiative oekoreich initiated. This shows that the practice of “toe trimming”, which is banned in Austria and involves the toes being melted away using microwave technology a few hours after hatching, is nevertheless omnipresent – in the form of Italian imported goods in local supermarkets.
It has been proven that the removal of the toes of baby turkeys is done exclusively to maximize profits, as the animals would scratch each other due to miserable keeping conditions, thereby reducing the quality of the carcass. Several scientific studies clearly show that amputation of turkey poults is associated with great pain and significant consequential damage to the animals, which is why the practice is banned in Austria and is not used.
Producer confirms, opposition warns against trade
The Italian poultry group AIA confirmed the use of the method in response to a written query, and the Austrian food retailer SPAR has a whole range of this company’s products in its range. Despite the findings, no one seems to be thinking about delisting. When asked, the two responsible ministries for health and agriculture criticized the method, but referred to applicable EU law. According to the two departments, more transparency in food is all the more important.
The agricultural spokespersons from the SPÖ, FPÖ and Neos also emphasize the importance of mandatory labeling of food according to origin and husbandry in their statements. According to the Ministry of Health, discussions are currently taking place with retailers, but behind closed doors. The public does not find out who is involved and in what role. From a “ambiguous role of tradeThe FPÖ warns, for example, that trade wouldplaying a very sneaky game“.
“8 months left”: oekoreich calls for the rapid introduction of labeling
Die Initiative oekoreich, successor to the popular animal protection petition from 2021, which was very successful with over 416,000 signatures, once again calls on the governing parties to introduce labeling according to origin and husbandry, both for processed products and in the catering industry. Only when consumers know where the meat in the refrigerated shelf or on their plate actually comes from can they decide against systematic animal cruelty. This is the only way conscious consumption is actually possible:
„Instead of negotiating in the backroom with billion-dollar corporations who, as we all know, have never done more for animals and the environment of their own free will, the government should now practice transparency and inform the people. The ÖVP and the Greens still have 8 months left to decide on the labeling, and even an all-party decision seems possible. Let’s finally put limits on those who profit from animal cruelty and give the power back to the consumers“Sebastian Bohrn Mena, initiator of the animal welfare initiative and spokesman for oekoreich, appeals in conclusion.
The entire research is available to media representatives free of charge.
Questions & Contact:
Initiative oekoreich, initiative@oekoreich.com, +436607038864