Shechita UK has reacted to the Court of Justice of the European Union’s decision regarding the Organic production logo of the European Union. The decision means the logo cannot be placed on meat derived from animals that have been slaughtered in accordance with the shechita method. The full ruling can be seen here. This decision was contrary to the legal advice of Advocate General Wahl published less than six months ago.
Commenting on the decision, Shechita UK’s Campaign Director, Shimon Cohen has made the following comment:
“This ruling is absurd. It was made clear throughout this case, including by the Attorney General, that the case was about method of production. How much space an animal has on the farm or the quality of its feed has always defined organic, not the faith of its slaughterman. This decision discredits the European Court, displays a worrying one sided view of the published science and a troubling bias against the freedom of religion. The Court has over reached and we will work with European partners to see if there is any way to challenge this ruling.”