FAO.org

In 2020, the Serbian Government approved food safety bylaws on food products of plant origin, in line with EU legislation, that include flexibility measures and derogations for traditional food products.

This new legislation means that small-scale Serbian producers – and processors – can continue following traditional methods for making and selling food products based on fruits, vegetables and fresh herbs, as long as the food is safe.

Serbia’s food heritage runs deep, with many traditions passed down from one generation to the next. This is evident in the array of Serbian products on the market based on local produce – jams, juices, dried fruits, pickled cornichons, the traditional red pepper paste ajvar. Over 30 000 farming families grow their own fruits and vegetables, and most Serbian food businesses are run by families with strong links to their customers.

FAO and the EBRD began preparing guidelines and promotional materials to help Serbian producers comply with the new flexible bylaws. These bylaws will help preserve the diversity of high-quality food products in Serbia without sacrificing food safety and hygiene. They also send out a strong message on the economic benefits of diversifying and adding value to local fresh produce.

More important, they give small operators a chance to compete on the market, both at home and abroad, while keeping local traditions and cultural heritage alive.