§ Mr. KilfedderTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what research has been carried out in Northern Ireland on the irradiation of food; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HanleyWe are currently carrying out an extensive programme of internationally co-ordinated research into various aspects of food irradiation which is ongoing. It includes work on detection methods, the enhancement of food safety, extension of shelf life, impact of organoleptic characteristics, including colour, flavour and texture and impact on the vitamin content of selected foods.