§ Mr. BarkerTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps the Government are taking to respond to the long-term reduction in the mineral content of UK food. [46633]
§ Yvette CooperThe evidence on whether there has been a reduction in the mineral content of foods generally is unclear. This is due to the differences over time in study methodologies and because mineral levels naturally occurring in foods can vary widely due to a range of factors.
Experts advise that the overall balance of the diet is more important than the nutrient content of individual foods. It is for this reason that Government activity has concentrated on promoting the uptake of a healthy balanced diet.
§ Mr. BarkerTo ask the Secretary of State for Health whether advice on the need to provide clear information about levels of uncertainty contained in Guideline 2000 applies to advice given by the Food Standards Agency to(a) the public and (b) the Government. [46634]
§ Yvette CooperGuidelines 2000 on "Scientific Advice and Policy Making" is aimed at all Government Departments. The Guidelines do apply to the Food Standards Agency (FSA), which is a non-ministerial Department.
1175WAs its guiding principles are "Putting the consumer first", "Being open and accessible" and "Being an independent voice", the FSA gives advice both to the public and to the Government. Policy issues are discussed at meetings of the FSA board which are open to the public, and the right for the Agency to publish its advice to Ministers (subject to specified conditions) is enshrined in section 19 of the Food Standards Act 1999.