Q1 What is Compulsory Labelling?
A1 Compulsory labelling means that operators must label all fresh and frozen beef (and minced beef) with the following information:

(1) A reference number or code
(2) "Slaughtered In [name of Member State or Third Country]"
(3) Licence number of slaughterhouse
(4) "Cut In [name of Member State or Third Country]"
(5) Licence number(s) of cutting plant(s)
(6) The name of the Member State or Third Country in which the animal or group of animals were born
(7) The name of the Member State or Third Country in which the animal or group of animals were raised

Where an animal or group of animals are born and raised in the same country "Origin [ name of Country] " can be used, instead of separate indications 6 and 7 above.

Q2 Which operators does Compulsory Labelling apply to?
A2 All operators who sell fresh or frozen beef anywhere in the food chain, including slaughterhouses, cutting plants, cold stores, re-packaging centres and re-wrapping centres. Also businesses selling beef to the end customer including shops, mobile shops, market stalls, supermarkets, catering butchers and farm shops.

Q3 Who is responsible for administering the Compulsory BLS Scheme in England and Wales?
A3 The RPA Meat Technical Schemes section (MTS) based in Carlisle, administers the Compulsory Scheme for England and Wales covering all premises which have a MHS presence, i.e slaughterhouses and cutting plants. All other types of premises are the responsibility of local authorities via either their trading standards or environmental health departments. Their activities are coordinated by LACORS (Local Authorities Co-ordinators of Regulatory Services).

Q4 Do operators need to register for the Compulsory BLS Scheme?
A4 No. But, operators who wish to use Approved Labelling must contact the Approved Labelling Scheme section to request an application form.

Q5 Who checks that operators are complying with Compulsory Labelling requirements?
A5 All premises that have a MHS presence are checked by inspectors from the Livestock and Meat Inspectorate on behalf of the MTS section. Findings from visits are recorded on the BLS1 report form and forwarded to the MTS section in Carlisle.