Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 138: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if the Food Safety Authority of Ireland has a responsibility to inform the consumer regarding the best of practice labelling for chicken fillets in view of the food safety risk of imported chicken fillets; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19385/10]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)
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All chicken fillets sold in Ireland must comply with the European Community's stringent food safety and labelling requirements. The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) does not have any evidence to support the claim that imported chicken fillets present a greater food safety risk than domestically produced chicken fillets. Food Business Operators are responsible for producing safe food and labelling safe food in compliance with food safety legislation. The FSAI in conjunction with its official agencies carry out official controls in retail butcher shops and supermarkets to ensure chicken fillets are labelled in accordance with the law and to ensure the consumer is fully informed about the product they are buying and are not misled.

The FSAI has produced guidance for industry, enforcement officers and the public regarding food labelling requirements. This information is available on the Authority's website. In addition, the Authority has advice available to consumers about safe handling practices for raw meat and poultry.