Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 463: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food if all food products imported into Ireland contain accurate and authenticated labelling; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4109/07]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The enforcement of all food labelling regulations has been centralised in the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI). This came about as a result of one of the recommendations of the Food Labelling Group which reported in December 2002. The effect of this is that it not only streamlines the enforcement measures but it also provides a one-stop shop for any complaints on mislabelling of food.

The Department of Health and Children has responsibility for the European Communities (Labelling, Presentation and Advertising of Foodstuffs Regulations 2002 (S.I. No 483 of 2002, as amended) which is the main legislation in Ireland dealing with the general labelling of prepackaged foodstuffs. It also requires information on food labels to be given clearly, accurately and in a language understood by the consumer. There are many other separate labelling provisions in national and European legislation, such as provisions relating to nutrition, natural mineral waters, novel foods, food additives, food supplements, sweeteners and declaration on price indication, weights and measures and merchandise markings.

This Department is responsible for more detailed legislation on the labelling of specific food products including beef, poultry meat, milk and milk products, spirit drinks and wines. The labelling of fish and fish products comes within the remit of the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources.

Labelling inspections are carried out as part of the routine control work of the official agencies. Food labelling forms part of the Departments service contract with the FSAI. In this context liaison meetings are held throughout the year between the FSAI and the relevant officials of this Department where any specific areas of concern are addressed. The FSAI has also provided training for a number of inspectors on food labelling laws.