French lawmakers, from various political factions, celebrated a victory at the European Parliament as they successfully averted the proposed ban on the traditional wooden packaging of

Camembert cheese.

Within the framework of a proposal aimed at streamlining waste management across the 27-nation bloc, concerns were raised by French cheese producers regarding a potential prohibition on the iconic wooden packaging used for Camembert. This packaging is considered integral to the cheese's ripening process and final sale, embodying the essence of Camembert alongside its distinctive taste and texture.

The alarm over a bureaucratic interference that could jeopardize a cherished symbol of French gastronomy prompted an outcry among some lawmakers. Jean-Paul Garraud, a member of the European Parliament representing France's far-right Rassemblement National, emphasized the significance of preserving Camembert's traditional packaging, stating, "It is a matter of common sense. Don’t touch our Camemberts!"

The crux of the matter rested on the proposal's potential impact on the cheese's aging process. Advocates argued that substituting wood for more recyclable materials like plastic could disrupt the cheese's natural breathing process, affecting its texture and flavor. However, wood is challenging to recycle sustainably, aligning with the EU's aim to minimize its usage in food packaging.

Prior to the vote, Environment Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevicius assured that specialized raw-milk Camemberts with a controlled designation of origin would be exempted from such regulations.

In a united effort, European legislators across political spectrums, including liberal factions and the far-right, championed an amendment allowing wooden boxes in exceptional cases. Renew Europe legislator Valerie Hayer expressed relief post-vote, affirming the preservation of Camembert's heritage: "We have saved our Camemberts," she declared, ensuring protection for other revered cheeses.

The defense of wooden packaging extended across party lines, with the European People's Party leading the charge, emphasizing the cultural significance of these boxes for various cheeses. French MEP Laurence Sailliet stressed the importance of protecting regional characteristics without compromising environmental goals.

Food holds a special place in national identity, as evidenced by Gen. Charles de Gaulle's quote about governing a country renowned for its 246 types of cheese.

The article also touches on how the British used anti-EU food regulations in the Brexit campaign, leveraging stories about EU food regulations to sway public opinion against EU membership. Photo by Dominik Hundhammer, Wikimedia commons.