CATD does not expect a shortage of ice cream due to the introduction of labeling in Russia

‘The stock of products in warehouses has been formed, and in reality, manufacturers do not even have questions related to the shortage,’ he said.

Dubin noted that the CATD is observing a successful start of labeling cheeses and ice cream. ‘For cheeses, initially, the producers had about 100% readiness, and there were only isolated cases when someone did not have time. With ice cream, the situation is different, some manufacturers complained about the difficulties with preparation. But the reason is primarily in the late start of preparation,’ he said.

Dubin explained that the ice cream producers practically did not participate in the experiment, which lasted two and a half years and was the longest of all similar experiments. ‘But the companies in this industry refrained from it, first believing that they did not need labeling, and then believing that the deadlines would be postponed. Accordingly, therefore, we see that the contracts for the supply of labeling equipment were concluded on April 30 or in mid-May. But for objective reasons, it is difficult to bring and deliver such equipment faster than in two and a half months,’ he said.

The head of the CATD also reminded that according to the decree of the government of the Russian Federation, Russian farmers are allowed to sell products in retail chains without labeling until December 1, 2022. For its part, the CATD has assigned managers for the 200 largest dairy producers, who "carefully" monitor any issues that arise, Dubin assured.