§ 15. Mrs. Joyce Butlerasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to what extent development of protein from oil foods is taking place in Great Britain; what estimates have been made as to the safety of these foods for either animal or human consumption; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. FennerThe development of protein from an oil base is still in the research and development stage in this and other countries, including France. Testing of the product for safety on animals was initiated in laboratories some years ago and, in the light of the results, experimental trials as an animal feeding stuff are taking place. The product is not being marketed for human consumption at present, nor could it legally be sold as such in this country, as this is precluded by regulations made in 1966 under the Food and Drugs Act.
§ Mrs. ButlerIs the hon. Lady satisfied that the safety tests which are being applied to these petroleum proteins are adequate to assess possible dangers from this entirely new type of food? Japanese consumers have totally rejected these proteins. Can the Minister say what will be done to consult consumers in this country before any effort or attempt is made to use food made from these proteins?
§ Mrs. FennerLess than 5,000 tons of these proteins from hydrocarbons is being produced at the moment for use on experimental farms. The Food Additives and Contaminants Committee is carrying out a full review of the mineral hydrocarbons regulations, and the Food Standards Committee is reviewing the use in food of protein products derived from coventional and non-conventional sources. I can assure the hon. Lady that both committees will clearly reflect consumer interests.
§ Mr. SpeakerQuestions to the Prime Minister.
§ Mr. KelleyOn a point of order, Mr. Speaker. I do not think that the clock shows 3.15 p.m.
§ Mr. SpeakerThe clock which is in front of me shows 3.15 p.m.