Dáil Éireann - Volume 400 - 27 June, 1990

Written Answers. - Labelling of Foodstuffs.

Mr. G. Mitchell Mr. G. Mitchell

33. Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will outline the measures he has at his disposal in order to compel food manufacturers to identify product ingredients as part of the labelling and presentation of products, particularly in relation to the dairy industry.

Minister for Industry and Commerce (Mr. O'Malley) Desmond J. O'Malley

Minister for Industry and Commerce (Mr. O'Malley): The information given on the labels of foodstuffs is governed by the European Communities (Labelling, Presentation and Advertising of Foodstuffs) Regulations, 1982 (S.I. No. 205 of 1982). These Regulations, which gave effect to an EC Directive, require that specified details including a list of ingredients, be given on foodstuffs generally. Some foodstuffs, including certain dairy produce, are exempt from the requirement to show a list of ingredients.

Failure to give any of the details required is an offence.

1032

Enforcement of these Regulations and [1032] any decision to prosecute for non-compliance are the responsibility of the director of consumer affairs and fair trade who is independent in the performance of his duties, or the health boards.

Dáil Éireann 400 Written Answers. Labelling of Foodstuffs.

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