§ Mrs. Renée Shortasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the policy on the alleged health risks associated with diethylene glycol in sweets, meat pies, pasties, sausage rolls, cakes and puddings.
§ Mr. WhitneyI am advised that it is unlikely that adverse health effects have occurred as a result of exposure to diethylene glycol (DEG) and monoethylene glycol (MEG) in food, arising from the use over many years of regenerated cellulose film (RCF), though the possibility that untoward effects might have occurred in some individuals cannot be ruled out. I am satisfied that there is no need at the present time to take action to remove from retail sale food wrapped in RCF. However, it is necessary 159W for steps to be taken to reduce levels of DEG and MEG migrating into food, and in his reply to the hon. Member on 21 November, my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food will indicate the action being taken. We shall continue to keep in close touch on this matter.