FOOD LABELLING FOR SUGAR

Early day motion 878, tabled 22 March 2004 by Adrian Sanders (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 43 members.

That this House welcomes the recent call by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) for Government and industry to tackle obesity; notes that a high level of sugar consumption is a major contributing factor to the rise of obesity; requests that the Government works to increase public awareness of the importance of the reduction of sugar consumption as part of a healthy balanced diet, by creating clear sugar intake guidelines; agrees with the FSA that labelling to signpost sugar content in foods is a priority; further notes the availability of tested and safe low-calorie sweeteners on the UK market which can provide alternatives to sugar; calls on the low-calorie sweetener industry to be clear and transparent with consumers, in particular in the use of labelling so that consumers can make an informed choice; is concerned at the labelling of one product, Splenda, which claims on its label 'made from sugar, tastes like sugar'; and believes that such claims are unhelpful and misleading, and that, furthermore, for consumers with diabetes, could have a potential negative effect on their wellbeing and health.

Signatures by party: Labour 24, Liberal Democrat 11, Labour/Co-operative 3, UUP 2, DUP 1, Plaid Cymru 1, Scottish National Party 1.