HC Deb 31 January 1989 vol 146 c183W
Mr. Malcolm Bruce

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the implications for the health of consumers of the use of plasticisers in clingfilm, used to wrap food products.

Mr. Ryder

This matter has been the subject of detailed investigation, the results of which have been assessed by an independent expert committee. The committee's advice was that it was very unlikely that there were any adverse health effects from the current or past use of plasticisers in clingfilm.

Nevertheless, as a matter of prudence, action has been taken to secure the reformulation of clingfilm so as to reduce dietary intakes of the major plasticiser, and further survey work is in hand within the Government's comprehensive food surveillance arrangements.

Mr. Malcolm Bruce

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps he is taking to ensure consumer awareness of the health implications of the use of plasticisers in clingfilm and of the existence of products without plasticisers.

Mr. Ryder

My Department has agreed with the industry the wording to be used on clingfilm packaging which gives advice to consumers on the use of the product. This advice applies to all clingfilms, whether or not they contain plasticisers. In a press statement on 22 December 1986 my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary drew the attention of the public to the need to follow the guidance provided.

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