Andrew Bridgen raises concerns about insect protein being promoted as an alternative food when there are concerns about contamination and asks how the Government intend to label this type of protein, so that consumers can make informed decisions.
Andrew Bridgen (North West Leicestershire) (Ind)
T4. Insect protein is increasingly being pushed on social media as an alternative food, despite concerns about contamination. Will my right hon. Friend outline how the Government intend to label this type of protein, so that consumers can make informed decisions? (904425)
The Minister for Food, Farming and Fisheries (Mark Spencer)
Food is assessed before it is allowed to be placed on the UK market, and that assessment includes whether it is safe. As with any other food, any producer has to be registered with its local food authority to meet strict food safety requirements. Food derived from or including insect protein must be properly labelled, with ingredients clearly indicated and any warnings, such as the presence of allergens, included on the label.