asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of reports which indicate that some plastic materials used to pack foodstuffs may transfer substances to the foodstuffs themselves; if some limitation for regenerated cellulose film, elastomer materials and natural and synthetic rubbers and other similar materials is desirable and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Packaging of Food Stuffs.
3.
I am aware of these reports which indicate that constituents used in the packaging of foodstuffs may, in certain instances and circumstances, transfer to the food. The issues raised in these reports are highly technical and extremely complex.
With regard to the imposition of limits over the constituents of plastic packaging materials, the EEC is currently reviewing the whole question of food packaging materials with the long-term objective of establishing both migration limits and limits on individual constituents of plastic packaging materials. To date, the EEC Council has adopted a directive on limits for the monomer, vinyl chloride, which I will be very soon adapting into Irish law.
The question of migration limits and limits on other constituents of plastic packaging materials is being examined by various EEC working parties on which Ireland is represented. I am advised in this area by the Food Advisory Committee—a multidisciplinary scientific and medical body—which is keeping EEC developments on food packaging materials under continuous review. I would emphasise, however, that I have powers available to me under which food for sale may be sampled. If contamination from whatever source is likely to arise then foodstuffs can be specifically monitored for the presence of the relevant contaminants.
Is the Minister satisfied with the position presently in operation and does he accept that there is reason for improvement here with regard to the possibility of foods in some circumstances being open to the risk of contamination?
I agree that it is a situation that must be kept under review.
When are we likely to have a definite decision by the Minister with regard to what should be done about eliminating the risks involved?
There is one EEC directive which will be incorporated in our law. As far as the Food Advisory Committee advise on anything else, that will be done. It is a continuing process.