Pakistani Basmati Rice

HL Deb 13 March 2000 vol 610 c189WA

Lord Ahmed

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they are planning to re-grade Pakistani Basmati rice; and whether they would define it as pure, traditional or hybrid. [HL1398]

Baroness Hayman

There is at present no legal definition of Indian or Pakistani Basmati rice in the UK, although there is an industry code of practice, which lays down a general specification. However, in the light of technical developments which provide new ways of distinguishing one variety of long grain rice from another, the code may need to be updated. We will continue to work with the industry to ensure that all parties responsible for the trade in Basmati rice are involved and that consumers are not misled.