asked the Minister for Health what steps he is now taking to prevent the importation into this country of foodstuffs and drinks containing cyclamates which have been or may be prohibited in other countries.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cyclamates Prohibition.
15.
I would refer the Deputy to my reply to questions regarding cyclamates on 28th October, 1969.
I have to-day received the recommendations of my Food Advisory Committee in the matter. I propose to give them immediate consideration and to decide the steps which I should take in the interests of public health to control the use of cyclamates in food. Such control would apply to the import of any food or drink containing this substance.
Can the Minister say in what way he hopes to overcome the difficulties which surely arise by reason of the fact that many of the foodstuffs and drinks do not disclose to the general importer or consumer that they contain cyclamates? What steps will be taken to examine products before importation to ensure that they do not contain cyclamates?
We will have to rely to some extent on the reputation of the companies concerned with the manufacture of these foods, a great many of which are well known and are firms of respectability. The matter will be kept under review.