UK Faces Custard Shortage Due to EU Regulatory Measures

The United Kingdom is experiencing a potential shortage of custard, a staple in many households, due to stringent regulatory measures enforced by the European Union. These actions have led to delays in the supply chain, particularly affecting Northern Ireland, where some supermarkets report reduced availability of the popular dessert item.

During a recent parliamentary debate, Sammy Wilson, a Member of Parliament for the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), expressed concerns over what he called “bonkers EU red tape.” He described how enforcement actions resulted in lorries carrying mixed loads being stopped and searched for custard. Wilson stated, “One of the big supermarkets had custard in its supply chain, and the EU bureaucrats decided that this custard must be hunted down.” He emphasized how these measures have disrupted logistics, delaying deliveries to stores across the region.

The European Commission has responded to the criticism by highlighting that the responsibility for implementing the Windsor Framework lies with the UK authorities. They reiterated that the regulations concerning agri-food arrangements must be followed, stating, “The authorities of the United Kingdom are responsible for implementing and applying the Windsor Framework provisions in Northern Ireland.” This framework, which came into effect after the Northern Ireland Protocol, requires Northern Ireland to adhere to specific EU regulations regarding goods.

Since October 2023, meat products transported from Great Britain to Northern Ireland have required special labelling. This requirement is set to expand in October 2024 to include dairy items, with additional products like eggs, fish, fruit, and vegetables facing similar regulations starting on July 1, 2025.

Retailers are feeling the impact of these new rules. The chief executive of Marks and Spencer, Stuart Machin, has criticized the extension of labelling requirements as “bureaucratic madness,” urging for a new agrifood deal. He stated that such agreements are essential for smoother operations and better access to goods for consumers.

In response to the uproar, a spokesperson for the Labour Party Government clarified that there is no custard ban in Northern Ireland and refuted claims about EU officials conducting “raids.” They stated, “All checks in the UK are conducted by UK officials,” and assured the public that custard remains available on store shelves.

The ongoing situation highlights the complexities of post-Brexit trade arrangements and their impact on consumer goods in the UK. As the government navigates these challenges, shoppers may continue to experience fluctuations in the availability of key pantry items, including custard.