CESA brands EU proposals to test equipment as ‘non-sustainable'
The Catering Equipment Suppliers' Association](http://www.cesa.org.uk/pages/home/) (CESA) fears that EU plans for all food service equipment to undergo expensive tests will threaten customised solutions for customers and discourage suppliers from developing energy-saving kit for the future.
The association is chair of an EU technical committee (EFCEM) which is currently looking at refrigerated cabinets, blast chillers and walk-in cold rooms but will then turn its attention to ovens, hobs and grills.
CESA director Keith Warren said the current proposals would require all models (including non-standard equipment) to be tested at manufacturers' expense and were thus "non-sustainable".
"Manufacturers' ability to customise models is an essential requirement in the food service sector, due to the varying demands of operators and their site requirements," said Warren. "Some refrigeration companies offer literally hundreds of different variants.
"The latest EU proposals are in the form of an Implementing Measure under the Eco Design Directive. The outcome of the work on commercial refrigeration could place significant development and testing costs on companies, as well as a major administrative burden on technical and testing staff.
"If they are applied to every model variant, then there is a danger that they will discourage companies from developing the new technologies that are essential if we are to meet sustainability and environmental commitments."
By Angela Frewin
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