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Christmas markets: how to buy well to avoid traps?

Publié le 05 décembre 2023 - Legal and Administrative Information Directorate (Prime Minister)

Do you like the atmosphere of the Christmas markets? Do you usually find original gifts there? Discover the advice given by the DGCCRF to avoid traps on the origin of local products, local crafts... Service-Public.fr details the points of vigilance to be preferred on Christmas markets.

Image 1Crédits: NikonSteff - stock.adobe.com

Indication of origin

The indication of origin is mandatory for certain products (honey, olive oil, etc.). In the case of other foodstuffs, it shall become so only if its omission is liable to confuse the purchaser as to the actual origin or provenance of the foodstuff.

Warning

pay attention when you see the registration

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on a product such as gingerbread or nougat for example and trust a few clues by looking more closely at the packaging, cartons, canned.

FYI

food quality labels guarantee the provenance of a food product. Some are recognized at European level, others only at national level. Discover the differences between labels PDO, PDO, PGI, TSG, Organic Agriculture (AB) and Label Rouge.

The words ‘Made in France’ or ‘Made in France’

You can favor local products thanks to the mention “Made in France”. It is optional on non-food goods imported into or marketed within the European Union. If you buy electric garlands or candles in a Christmas market and this endorsement is used by a professional, it must be done in accordance with the regulations.

FYI

penalties are provided for deceptive marketing practices (e.g. tricolor cockade) or any indication that suggests an origin different from the actual origin.

The right of withdrawal on a Christmas market

According to Article L.121-97 of the Consumer Code, please be aware that you have no right of withdrawal. If you are not satisfied with your purchase at a Christmas market, a refund can be made in agreement with the merchant.

FYI

the exhibitor must inform its consumer customers of the absence of the right of withdrawal by means of a sign which must contain the following information: