Vol. 431 No. 8
123 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Minister for Health the steps, if any, he is taking to ensure that new EC health guidelines do not present unreasonable difficulties for small scale, farm-based food producers of such items as homemade bread, jams or free range eggs in view of the consumer demand for these products and their importance as a source of income for many rural families; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
There are no new EC guidelines specifically regarding small scale farm-based food producers. However I am aware of concerns expressed regarding the application of the food hygiene regulations to small scale food enterprises operating from domestic kitchens. Possibly this is what the Deputy is referring to in his question.
The food hygiene regulations, 1950-89, which are implemented by the health boards, are applicable to most food enterprises. The purpose of these regulations is to ensure that there is no danger to public health arising from the preparation and distribution of food from any source which is intended for sale to the public.
