HC Deb 23 June 1977 vol 933 cc507-8W
Mr. Nicholas Winterton

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to what extent it is necessary for the suppliers of bacon which is preserved and sold in the United Kingdom, to state the additives which are used in the preserving process.

Mr. Strang

Bacon does not normally bear a list of ingredients at present. As part of its general review of our food law, the Food Standards Committee is considering to what extent it is necessary for it to do so.

Mr. Nicholas Winterton

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if sodium nitrate and sodium nitrite are used in the preserving of bacon produced in the United Kingdom.

Mr. Strang

Both these preservatives may be used up to the specified maximum levels laid down in the Preservatives in Food Regulations 1975, as amended. The Food Additives and Contaminants Committee is at present reviewing all uses of these permitted preservatives in food and a report will be issued in due course.