Wholesaler says human error to blame for relabelling case

Booker claims problem was an isolated incident

The food wholesaler Booker, which is owned by Tesco, has admitted relabelling Uruguayan beef – but claimed it was a case of “human error” and not common practice.

The admission came after the National Beef Association (NFA) challenged the company to explain photos of relabelled meat which also covered information on freezing and shelf life.

In a letter to Booker, NBA interim chief executive Neil Shand stated: “Whilst we acknowledge and agree labelling laws in the UK under the current EU legislative banner are vague to say the least, we understand labelling over the original label is against the law.

“This therefore appears to be a breach of both Trading Standards and Environmental Health law.”

Imported Uruguayan beef was relabelled by Booker.