Written question asked by Mike Hancock (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 19 January 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 31 January 2005. It was answered by Melanie Johnson (Labour) on Monday, 31 January 2005 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, if he will (a) ban the use of partially hydrogenated oils (trans fats) in foodstuffs and (b) seek to legislate to ensure that all food products containing trans fats are clearly labelled with the content.

Answer: Mr. Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will (a) ban the use of partially hydrogenated oils (trans fats) in foodstuffs and (b) seek to legislate to ensure that all food products containing trans fats are clearly labelled with the content. [210428] Miss Melanie Johnson: Consumption of trans- unsaturated fatty acids (TFAs) has declined in the United Kingdom and is now below levels that have been shown to be associated with cardiovascular disease. Nevertheless, the Government will identify opportunities to further reduce TFAs levels as part of the commitment made in the White Paper, "Choosing Health", to work with industry to reduce fat levels in food. The Government are pressing for the labelling of TFAs in foods at European Union level.

Secondary information