HC Deb 20 December 1989 vol 164 c347W
Dr. David Clark

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether the reheating of cook-chill foods from retail outlets is required for safety reasons prior to consumption; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Gummer

[holding answer 18 December 1989]: In any food, the possibility cannot be ruled out that microbiological contamination may occur at some stage before the consumer eats it. With food that is to be heated, therefore, as a matter of prudence consumers should ensure that it is heated until piping hot right through.