EU Bans Algerian Hazelnut Spread and Sparks Debate Over Protectionism

The European Union has recently blocked imports of the popular Algerian hazelnut spread, El Mordjene, produced by Cebon which gained significant popularity in France following enthusiastic reviews by social media influencers. Described as having an “incredible texture” and “so good it’s worth dying for,” the spread became a sought-after product, with jars selling for more than €10 in small shops across France.

Despite its popularity, the EU cited health and safety concerns as the reason for the ban. According to the French Ministry of Agriculture, Algeria does not meet the necessary conditions for exporting products containing dairy inputs intended for human consumption to the European Union. This decision has led to the suspension of further imports of El Mordjene into EU markets.

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The Ministry also announced an investigation into how the spread was able to reach French shelves despite the regulatory shortcomings. Carrefour, one of France’s largest supermarket chains, expressed interest in stocking the spread but emphasised the need to comply with European food import regulations before it could be made available to consumers.

Economic and Cultural Impact

The ban on El Mordjene has sparked a wave of frustration and disappointment among consumers, particularly within the Algerian community in France and Algeria. For many Algerians, the spread’s success in international markets, particularly in France, was a source of national pride. Rabie Zekraoui, a store owner in Algiers, echoed this sentiment, stating, “We must support Algerian products.”

The product’s popularity posed a challenge to established European brands like Nutella, which dominates the French market with a 75% share. Some observers suggest that the ban may not solely be about health concerns but could also reflect economic protectionism aimed at limiting competition from North African products.

Comparisons and Controversies

Nutritionists have compared El Mordjene to Nutella, noting that both products share similar ingredient profiles and receive low nutritional scores. While concerns about food safety are valid, some speculate that the real issue lies in the rapid rise of Algerian products in the European market. The increasing competitiveness of North Africa’s food industry, particularly in Algeria and Morocco, may have prompted protective measures from European regulators.

Algeria has made significant strides in its food production sector, with companies like El Mordjene emerging as key players. The country’s efforts to modernise and innovate in this field are challenging European dominance, raising questions about the future of trade relations between Europe and North Africa.

Political and Trade Implications

The decision to ban El Mordjene has broader implications for EU-North Africa trade relations. As North African countries continue to expand their food industries, the EU will need to balance legitimate health regulations with the realities of increased competition from these emerging markets. If the pattern of restricting imports from North Africa continues, it could strain trade relations and impact ongoing free trade negotiations.

Mustapha Zebdi, president of the Algerian Association for the Protection and Guidance of Consumers, suggested that the ban might be an attempt to protect Nutella’s market share. This sentiment has been echoed by others, including Lotfi Khammar of the National Federation of Algerian Exporters, who claimed that the ban was driven by competition concerns rather than genuine safety issues.

Social Media and Public Reactions

The ban has ignited a lively debate on social media, with many Algerians expressing their frustration and accusing European authorities of unfair treatment. Some users have linked the ban to broader geopolitical tensions, while others have criticized what they perceive as hypocrisy in European trade practices.

In contrast, some commentators argue that the focus on the spread’s ban detracts from more pressing issues facing Algerian society. Nonetheless, the debate underscores the deep emotional and cultural significance of El Mordjene’s success in international markets.

Conclusion

The EU’s ban on El Mordjene raises important questions about the balance between health regulations and economic protectionism. As Algeria and other North African countries continue to develop their industries, they will likely face further challenges in accessing European markets. The outcome of the ongoing investigation into El Mordjene’s compliance with EU standards could set a precedent for future trade relations between Europe and North Africa. Whether this ban is an isolated incident or the start of a broader trend remains to be seen.

As Africa continues to rise and assert its presence on the global stage, it is crucial that the continent’s achievements are celebrated and protected against unjust barriers. The story of El Mordjene is a reminder of the potential and resilience of African industries, and the need for fair and equitable trade practices that respect the progress being made across the continent.