Paul Gogarty (Dublin Mid West, Green Party)
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Question 135: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the health issues surrounding hydrogenated vegetable oils in the food industry and that certain states in the US are phasing them out due to the high risk of cardiovascular disease and other health implications associated with these oils; her policy and that of the EU which exists regarding trans fats and other such oils; if there are changes expected to legislation in the coming years; if she will provide a commitment that food safety and public health will be a priority within her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35472/09]

Trevor Sargent (Dublin North, Green Party)
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I am aware of the health issues relating to the use of hydrogenated vegetable oils. The primary health concern is the trans fatty acid content which has a negative impact on coronary heart disease. I am also aware that certain jurisdictions have implemented restrictions on the use of trans fatty acids. The matter came up for discussion during EU deliberations on an amendment to a draft regulation on nutritional claims this year when Ireland expressed concern that trans fatty acids were not adequately considered. However, the EU Commission opinion is that the levels of consumption of trans fatty acids in Europe are within the maximum levels recommended by the World Health Organisation.

Ireland has also made written submissions and has raised the matter at EU labelling meetings on a number of occasions recommending that the fat content of products be clearly labelled. This is in the interests of both public health and providing as much information as possible to the consumer to enable the consumer to make informed food choices. Our position in relation to labelling is that the amount of trans fatty acids should be included in the mandatory nutrition declaration. Ireland's position on trans fatty acids is determined by public health and food safety considerations and this will continue to be the case.