Vol. 410 No. 2
100 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will outline the additives by name and by their "E" number which are banned in the use of foods distributed in Ireland; whether he has satisfied himself that this list is comprehensive; and if he will outline whether the labelling requirements are sufficient to alert those with sensitive health conditions to the presence of possible reactive additives.
My responsibility in this matter concerns the food labelling requirements as provided for in the European Communities (Food Labelling, Advertising and Presentation) Regulations, 1982 and 1987.
These regulations provide that the labels of most foodstuffs must show a list of ingredients, in descending order of weight. Ingredients for the purposes of the regulations comprehend what are generally referred to as additives. The regulations include 18 listed categories which have to be identified by name and by either the full name of the ingredient itself or its identifying EC number (the "E" number). Colours, preservatives, antioxidants, flavour enhancers and artificial sweeteners are some of the categories of additives covered under the regulations.
I am satisfied that this requirement is particularly helpful to consumers, who, for reasons of health, would wish to avoid consuming foods containing particular additives.
The matter of additives which are banned for use in foodstuffs is the responsibility of my colleague, the Minister for Health.
