asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that serious doubt exists amongst doctors as to the advisability of the use of nitrogen trichloride by flour millers for the purpose of bleaching; and, if so, if he will indicate his Department's policy concerning this undesirable practice.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bleaching of Flour.
I am aware that the use of nitrogen trichloride or agene as an improver inflour has been questioned from time to time.
The whole question of the use of improvers in bread and flour was referred to a scientific committee. This committee issued an interim report to the effect that the use of agene was tolerable but that the amount added should not exceed the minimum necessary to produce a satisfactory flour; the report also indicated that agenised flour can react with components of the protein to produce other compounds that have been shown to be harmful to some animals.
Pending the receipt of this committee's final recommendations, I am not in a position to indicate what policy will be adopted in this matter ultimately.
Is it not a fact that the committee referred to was set up by the Minister for Agriculture some time in 1950 and he is still examining these matters and will continue to do so?
That is correct.