News Onions
Hungary destroys batch of Dutch onions
The authorities in Hungary have ordered the destruction of a batch of onions from the Netherlands. This is because a sticker about the origin of the batches is missing. The Dutch MEPs are stunned and have asked for clarification from European Commissioner Phil Hogan.
About 2 weeks ago, 24.000 kilos of Dutch onions were destroyed in Hungary, because a sticker about the origin of the onions was missing. However, the transport papers clearly indicated the origin of the batch. In addition, the details of the lot were also in the digital control system.
This was reportedly the only reason for the destruction of the onions. This is remarkable, because the legislation states that if the batch does not meet administrative requirements, traders must have the opportunity to correct the errors. This opportunity was not given: the onions were destroyed immediately.
Current situation already tight
"Situations like this are especially undesirable this season, given that very few onions were available," write MEPs Bas Belder and Bert-Jan Ruissen (ChristenUnie-SGP) together with Annie Schreijer-Pierik (CDA) and Jan Huitema (VVD). a letter to the European Commission. When looking at current onion prices, the issue is about a significant amount.
"Destroying healthy onions because a sticker is missing, that goes against all principles," says Ruissen. "The European Commission has to get to the bottom of where the rules have gone off the rails. We really have to prevent this from happening again."
Anne-Jan Doorn
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