asked the Minister for Health if he will comment on the validity of claims made in a document (details supplied) in general circulation concerning the effect and degree of consequence of food additives and colourings in foodstuffs; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that certain types of these are classified as dangerous; and if he will clarify the present position in order to avoid undue public concern.
Written Answers. - Food Additives/Colourings.
112.
The document referred to has been circulating in Europe raising unnecessary fears about the safety-in-use of many food additives. The scientific authorities of the Villejuif Hospital, alleged to be the source of the information, have dissociated themselves from the document.
A system of control over the use of food additives exists in this country. Regulations controlling particular classes of additives list the substances which are permitted and, where appropriate, specify the conditions under which they may be used and the maximum levels of use. Additives are included in "permitted lists" only if there is satisfaction as to their safety and that there is a technological need for them. The Minister is advised on these matters by the Food Advisory Committee which is a committee of independent experts. In addition, additives are also examined by international expert bodies such as the European Commission's Scientific Committee for Food and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives as well as by the national authorities of many other countries. Information about the safety of additives is exchanged internationally. The use of permitted additives is kept under continuous review, particularly in the light of any new evidence relating to safety and if any was shown to cause widespread problems appropriate action would be taken.
With regard to the use of E-numbers, these indicate that an additive has been approved for use unanimously by all member states of the EC.