New legislation puts the future of coloured baits in doubt

SOME of angling’s most popular baits such as red maggots and coloured sweetcorn could be banned under sweeping new EU laws.

The regulations, which require companies to fully detail the ingredients of their products, could also lead to a rise in the cost of groundbait mixes and feed pellets.

Under the legislation, which companies are in the process of complying with, many fishing baits will be classed as ‘animal feed’, forcing manufacturers to potentially seek alternative ingredients for many products. The changes are expected to impact the smaller bait companies the hardest.

Products under the most scrutiny are groundbait and the dyes used to colour maggots, boilies and feed pellets, but plans could be extended to include hookbaits and liquids, both of which are currently exempt.

Sonubaits boss Ian Day said that his firm has spent four years preparing for the changes.

“It’s currently groundbait under the microscope and any product must detail at least four nutritional values, although more are required in Europe,” he said.

“Some of the dyes used in baits are synthetic, and these could be banned as they offer no nutritional benefits. Switching to natural dyes can be expensive and less effective. The legislation is costing companies thousands, and other manufacturers may choose to pass this on to the consumer.”

Dynamite Baits is also embracing the changes. A spokesperson said:

“We’ve invested a lot of money into making sure that we are registered to sell animal feed but also ensuring our bait can continue to be crafted at the same high standard.”