HC Deb 02 March 1966 vol 725 cc1278-9
14. Sir J. Langford-Holt

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, in view of the fact that exposure to daylight greatly reduces the vitamin content of milk, if he will take steps to promote the use of opaque milk containers.

Mr. Hoy

The Cook Committee on Milk Composition in the United Kingdom considered this question in 1960 and concluded that the available evidence on the loss of vitamins from milk as a result of exposure to daylight did not suggest a need for special containers.

Ultra heat treated milk which has since appeared on the market is retailed in opaque packs in the interests of long-keeping quality.

Sir J. Langford-Holt

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that publicity has recently been given to this subject and that an assertion has been made in print that, within a period of one hour, about 80 per cent. of the vitamin content of milk disappears under the influence of daylight? Is he also aware that it is absolutely vital, if this sort of publicity continues, in order to preserve the consumption of liquid milk, that he should keep an eye on it?

Mr. Hoy

I can give the hon. Gentleman that assurance. I am certain that he, along with me and, I am sure, the rest of the House, would deprecate these gross abuses of opinion about these foodstuffs.