Vitamins and Minerals

HL Deb 05 March 2004 vol 658 cc128-9WA

Earl Howe

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What information they have about the data considered by the European Food Safety Authority when reviewing the safe intake of vitamins and minerals; and whether such data included:

(a) similar analyses undertaken by the United Kingdom Ad Hoc Expert Advisory Group on Vitamins and Minerals; and

(b) the report of the United States Food and Nutrition Board. [HL1283]

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Health (Lord Warner)

The European Food Safety Authority's panel on dietetic products, nutrition and allergies is continuing the review of safe intakes of vitamins and minerals started by the European Commission Scientific Committee on Food in 1998. Both groups have had access to all relevant published scientific data.

The panel has been provided with a copy of the report of the United Kingdom Expert Group on Vitamins and Minerals (EVM) and the reviews and risk assessments prepared by the EVM. It also has access to the reports of the United States Food and Nutrition Board and other relevant opinions.