Lawyers for Food Law
Legal Certainty in the Food Industry
MTR Legal Lawyers
Legal Expertise for the Food Industry
Food law forms the foundation for the production, distribution, and marketing of food products in Germany and the EU. It regulates the compliance with safety and quality standards, labeling requirements, and consumer protection. At the same time, it provides companies with clear guidelines to minimize legal risks and successfully bring their products to market. Given the stringent legal requirements and the high sensitivity of the industry, sound legal advice is essential.
At MTR Legal, we support manufacturers, retailers, importers, and restaurateurs in all matters related to food law. Whether it’s product development, labeling, compliance with hygiene regulations, or legal disputes – we are here to assist you with our extensive expertise. With our help, you can ensure that your products are legally compliant and that your business operations meet regulatory requirements.
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Our Services in Food Law
Our range of services covers all relevant areas important to the food industry.
- Product Development and Legal Market Introduction
- Labeling and Packaging Regulations
- Food Surveillance and Hygiene Law
- Consultation on Product Recalls and Crisis Management
- Legal Issues in Advertising and Health Claims
- Import and Export of Food Products
- Litigation and Dispute Resolution
- Compliance and Employee Training
Represented globally
As a member of the international network of lawyers IR Global, we are your contact for cross-border matters and represent you in an international context.
Product Development and Legal Market Introduction
From Concept to Shelf – Legally Secure Market Introduction
The market launch of a new product requires not only creative ideas but also compliance with numerous legal requirements. From the formulation to marketing, legal standards must be met to avoid sanctions or product recalls. This includes checking ingredients, adhering to permissible limits, and classifying products into the correct categories.
At MTR Legal, our attorneys support you in legally securing your product development and market introduction. We review your formulations, advise on permissible ingredients, and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations. With our support, you can safely and successfully bring your product to market.
Labeling and Packaging Regulations
Clear Information – Legally Compliant and Consumer-Friendly
The labeling of food products is a sensitive area that is strictly regulated by both national laws and EU regulations, such as the Food Information Regulation (LMIV). Incorrect information about ingredients, allergens, or nutritional values can lead to warning letters, fines, and damage to your reputation.
Our law firm supports you in ensuring your labeling and packaging are legally compliant. We review your labels and advise on the required information, such as ingredient lists, nutritional tables, or origin declarations. With our help, you can ensure that your products meet legal requirements and strengthen your customers’ trust.
Create Clarity – Now!
For legal clarity and strategic foresight – our team is ready to assist you. Don’t hesitate to contact us.
Our Team in Food Law
Expertise and Experience for Your Legal Security in the Food Industry.
The team at MTR Legal consists of experienced attorneys specializing in food law. We have extensive knowledge of national and European regulations, as well as the specific requirements of the industry. Our advice is practical, goal-oriented, and tailored to your individual needs.
We place great importance on close collaboration with our clients to fully understand their challenges and develop customized solutions. Whether you’re a startup, a medium-sized business, or an international corporation, we provide legal advice that prioritizes your business interests. With MTR Legal, you are legally well-secured and can focus on the success of your products.
Frequently Asked Questions
We would be happy to address any questions you may have in a confidential conversation.
The production of organic food is subject to strict legal regulations, particularly under the EU Organic Regulation. These include requirements regarding the origin of raw materials, production methods, and documentation. Certification and regular inspections by independent bodies are also necessary in order to use the “Organic” label. Non-compliance with these regulations can lead to fines or the loss of organic certification. Our attorneys at MTR Legal provide comprehensive advice on the legal requirements for organic products and assist you in ensuring that your processes are in full compliance with the law.
The sale of food through online stores is subject to specific regulations. In addition to the general food law requirements, operators must also comply with specific rules regarding labeling and product presentation on the internet. This includes providing information on ingredients, allergens, nutritional values, and best-before dates. Violations of these regulations can lead to warning letters or legal disputes. The law firm MTR Legal advises you on all legal aspects of online food sales and helps you create a legally compliant online presence.
Warning notices in food law, such as those regarding allegedly insufficient labeling or unlawful advertising, are common and can lead to significant costs. However, these often involve unjustified or excessive claims that can be legally challenged. Our attorneys at MTR Legal review the legitimacy of warning notices and develop strategies to effectively defend you against unjustified demands.
The use of additives such as colorants, preservatives, or flavor enhancers is strictly regulated under food law. Only approved substances can be used, and they must be clearly labeled. Additionally, there are restrictions depending on the product category and target audience, such as for foods intended for children. Our attorneys at MTR Legal assist you in complying with the legal requirements for the use of additives and ensuring your products are legally compliant.
Contracts between food manufacturers, retailers, and suppliers must clearly define terms related to delivery timelines, quality standards, and liability issues. Vague or incomplete agreements can lead to legal disputes in cases such as product defects or delivery delays. The experts at MTR Legal assist you in drafting legally secure contracts that protect your business relationships and safeguard your interests.
Violations of hygiene standards can lead to business closures, fines, and long-term damage to customer and partner trust. Food safety authorities strictly enforce hygiene violations, and repeated offenses can result in criminal consequences. MTR Legal advises you on food safety requirements and supports you in complying with hygiene regulations to avoid legal consequences.
The production and marketing of substitute products, such as meat or dairy alternatives, pose specific legal challenges. These include regulations for naming, composition, and labeling of the products. Terms like “milk,” “cheese,” or “butter” are protected for animal-based products and cannot be used improperly. Our attorneys at MTR Legal advise you on the specific requirements for substitute products and help you bring your innovations to market in full legal compliance.
Exporting food to countries outside the EU requires compliance with both European regulations and the specific laws of the destination market. This includes requirements for product composition, labeling, and customs procedures. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in delays, fines, or the return of goods. MTR Legal supports you in the legal preparation and execution of export transactions, ensuring that your products meet the requirements of the destination countries.
Berlin
Cologne
Hamburg
Düsseldorf
Frankfurt
Munich
Stuttgart
Bonn
Local. Regional. International.
At eight strategically positioned offices, from Hamburg to Munich, we stand by your side with a team of lawyers. No matter where you are in the world or what legal issue you face, MTR Legal offers comprehensive, personalized advice and dedicated representation globally.
Food Surveillance and Hygiene Law
Compliance with the Highest Hygiene Standards
Compliance with hygiene regulations is essential to ensure the safety and quality of food products. Violations of hygiene regulations can have serious legal consequences, ranging from fines to business closures. Food surveillance plays a central role in this process, regularly inspecting adherence to these standards.
At MTR Legal, our attorneys advise you on the requirements of hygiene law and support you during inspections by authorities. We help you identify and address issues early on, and represent you in legal disputes if any violations or objections arise.
Consultation on Product Recalls and Crisis Management
Act Quickly and Legally Secure in a Crisis
When issues arise with a product, such as harmful ingredients or incorrect labeling, swift and legally secure action is essential. Product recalls or warnings must be carefully planned and executed to minimize damage to the company.
MTR Legal supports you in the legal assessment of product safety issues and the execution of recall actions. We work with you to develop strategies to meet legal requirements and protect your brand. With our help, you can navigate crisis situations confidently and minimize legal risks.
Legal Issues in Advertising and Health Claims
Advertising that convinces – without legal pitfalls
Advertising for food products is subject to strict legal regulations, especially when it comes to health claims. Unlawful or misleading statements can quickly lead to warning letters and legal disputes.
Our experts at MTR Legal review your advertising campaigns for legal compliance and advise you on permissible claims. Whether it’s packaging design, online marketing, or TV advertising – we help you promote your products in a legally secure and convincing manner.
You need legal support?
MTR Legal provides professional legal advice in all areas of customs law. Let us work together to find the best solution.
Import and Export of Food Products
Legally Secure Processing of Cross-Border Transactions
International trade in food is characterized by complex legal requirements. Import and export regulations, customs rules, and food law requirements of target markets must be carefully observed to avoid delays or penalties.
Our attorneys at MTR Legal provide comprehensive advice on the legal requirements for cross-border trade. We support you in ensuring compliance with regulations and represent you in conflicts with authorities or business partners.
Litigation and Dispute Resolution
Competent Representation in Legal Disputes
In the food industry, legal disputes often arise, whether due to complaints from authorities, conflicts with suppliers, or warning letters from competitors. Quick and professional resolution is crucial to minimize financial damage.
Our law firm represents you at all stages of legal disputes, both out of court and in court. We develop strategies to effectively protect your interests and ensure that you achieve your business goals.
Compliance and Employee Training
Knowledge and Legal Certainty in Your Business
Compliance with food law regulations requires a well-trained team that understands and implements legal requirements. Regular training helps prevent mistakes and strengthens awareness of legal obligations.
MTR Legal offers tailored compliance programs and training for your company. We provide practical knowledge and support you in securing your processes legally. With our help, you will create a culture of legal certainty and strengthen the trust of your customers and business partners.
