§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what assessment he has made of health risks related to higher dose supplements and vitamins. [85268]
§ Mr. Rooker[holding answer 26 May 1999]: The Committee on Medical Aspects of Food and Nutrition Policy (COMA) has recommended that caution needs to be exercised in the use of high doses of purified supplements of micronutrients as they cannot be assumed to be without risk. It has also advised against the use of beta carotene supplements as a means of protecting against cancer.
The Government have since established the Expert Group on Vitamins and Minerals to consider the safety of vitamins and minerals in supplements sold under food law. It is expected to complete its task around the end of 2000.
§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what negotiations he has had with his European Union partners on policy relating to higher dose supplements and vitamins. [85269]
§ Mr. Rooker[holding answer 26 May 1999]: The EU Commission is considering the possibility of harmonising controls on the sale of vitamin and mineral supplements but has not yet issued any proposals for legislation. There have not therefore been any negotiations on this matter.