Laser Fruit Labeling Approved by EU

Sticky labels on supermarket fruits are set to be replaced by laser ‘tattoos’ printed onto their skin, under new rulings from the European Union.

The EU approved the use of iron oxides and hydroxides in lasering citrus fruit, melons and pomegranates last week and the law comes into force from 23 June.

Although the technology has been around since 2009, the use of these chemicals – which enhance the contrast between the lasered and non-lasered parts of the fruit making the mark much clearer – had previously been banned.

Retailers and suppliers can use the ‘tattoos’ to mark the fruit and track where it has been and where it is sold.

Under the new ruling they can additionally add barcodes or other information to the skin of fruits which removes the need for sticky labels