§ Mr. HunterTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what has been the response of the food industry to his guidelines on nutrition labelling which he published in July 1987.
§ Mr. Donald ThompsonBoth food manufacturers and food retailers have shown considerable interest in adopting the standard format for nutrition labelling set out in the guidelines and in giving this information to consumers on the labels of their products. There have been two practical problems which have needed resolution, but I am pleased to announce that adjustments to the guidelines covering the category in which trans-fatty acids should be declared and the way in which, for the time being, dietary fibre shall be assessed have resolved these matters. I am, therefore, hopeful that these small adjustments will result in a high level of uptake by the industry of these guidelines.