A prominent figure in the Spanish wine sector, the general secretary of the Spanish Federation of Wines and Spirits weighs in on a pressing EU debate about labeling. He notes that current discussions within the European Commission and EU institutions could lead to changes in the regulation of food and beverage labeling in 2023. The proposal would require warnings on wine bottles, similar to the health warnings seen on tobacco products, to inform consumers about potential cancer risks. The aim is to raise awareness, but the industry argues that wine is a culturally ingrained part of the Mediterranean diet and that no solid scientific evidence supports such warnings for moderate consumption.
In Spain, the wine sector is a major export force outside the euro area. Leaders from notable Denominations of Origin such as Rioja, Ribera del Duero, Jerez, Somontano, Madrid, Valencia, Rías Baixas, La Mancha, and Cava recently held a working meeting with lawmakers from the Parliament, including representatives from the PP. The country is a leading global producer with extensive vineyard acreage, substantial production, thousands of wineries, and significant employment and export value. This context frames their concerns about potential labeling changes and their implications for the industry.
The general secretary of the federation emphasizes that wine is part of a long-standing cultural tradition of moderate consumption and Mediterranean cuisine. He asserts that there is no definitive scientific proof that moderate wine consumption harms health, and he cautions against what he sees as heavy lobbying against alcohol use. He calls for a balanced approach that respects cultural practices while considering public health goals.
César Saldaña, who directs the Jerez DO, highlights the need for better coordination to resist initiatives he describes as disproportionate, such as a declaration signed by several European associations. He argues that certain labels portray drugs as neutral and alcohol as a catalyst for health problems, which could unfairly criminalize wine and similar beverages. His stance calls for a clear statement that promotes responsible and moderate wine consumption as part of a broader food system.
Salvador Manjón, head of the Valencia DO, notes that the industry often reacts only when it feels directly threatened. He urges reframing the conversation to focus on wine as an agricultural product and a staple food. He also suggests that the debate may reflect cultural and ideological tensions that go beyond health concerns, touching on broader attitudes toward wine in Anglo-Saxon markets.
A spokesperson from the European Parliament, formerly the Minister of Health, stresses the Mediterranean diet as a valuable European heritage that includes reasonable wine consumption. He argues that anti-cancer plans in Europe should be based on solid scientific evidence and due diligence, warning against policies that could mischaracterize wine without robust data. The dialogue continues as stakeholders seek a path that supports public health while sustaining a historic and culturally significant industry.