The final stage of the UK’s post-Brexit labelling requirements has now taken effect, marking a significant shift in how food products are marked and moved between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. As of July 1st, 2025, the scope of products requiring the “Not for EU” label has widened under the Windsor Framework, affecting a broad range of goods including eggs, fish, fruit, vegetables, and composite food items.
This latest phase builds on previous rules introduced since 2023, which saw meat and dairy products from Great Britain subject to the same labelling conditions. These changes are part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to uphold the terms of the Windsor Framework, which replaced the earlier Northern Ireland Protocol. The purpose is to ensure that Northern Ireland continues to comply with certain EU goods regulations.
While the intent is to maintain the seamless flow of goods without risking unauthorised entry into the wider EU market, the new labelling rules have not been without controversy. Stuart Machin, CEO of Marks & Spencer, recently referred to the expanded requirements as bureaucratic madness. He expressed concern over the added complexity and called for a swift agreement on a new agrifood deal between the UK and EU.
Despite these concerns, Government officials remain confident that the new rules will not disrupt product availability in Northern Ireland. In a further clarification, it was confirmed that while the legal power to implement these labelling measures across the entire UK will be put in place, there are no current plans to make them mandatory in Great Britain from the previously suggested date of October 1st, 2024.
Instead, the Government has chosen to continue its engagement with industry partners, focusing on monitoring supply chains and ensuring supermarket shelves across Northern Ireland remain well stocked. Ministers have stated that they reserve the right to apply “Not for EU” labels more widely in the future if necessary to safeguard trade within the UK.
Supporting UK Industry with Reliable Labelling Solutions
For food producers, logistics providers, and retailers navigating this evolving regulatory landscape, having a trusted labelling partner is vital. At Custom Labels Ltd, we have been working alongside UK businesses for nearly three decades, supplying everything from custom labels for packaging to durable asset tags used in logistics and inventory management.
Our state-of-the-art digital printing facilities allow us to produce high volumes of labels quickly and economically, ensuring both compliance and cost-effectiveness. Whether you are updating packaging to meet the latest post-Brexit rules or simply in need of high-quality asset labels, our expert team is ready to help.
We offer fast turnaround, reliable next-day delivery through DPD, and responsive customer service to keep your operations running smoothly. If you would like to explore our full range of labelling solutions or discuss a specific project, we would be happy to assist.
Call us today on 01278 433800 or email sales@customlabels.co.uk to get started. Let us help ensure your products are compliant, clearly marked, and ready for market.
Custom Labels Ltd, proudly supporting UK businesses through every regulatory change with precision, quality, and service.
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