HEALTH BENEFITS OF CRANBERRIES AND THE SUGAR TAX

Early day motion 1096, tabled 9 February 2016 by Gavin Robinson (DUP). Signed by 8 members.

That this House recognises the unique health benefits of cranberries and their role in preventing the incidence of urinary tract infections (UTls) in women and children; notes that at least half of all women will have a UTI during their lifetime and will subsequently be prescribed antibiotics to treat the infection; further notes that antimicrobial resistance is a growing issue of concern that unless tackled will make the most minor procedures dangerous, and overprescribing of antibiotics must be halted; takes note that if simple infections such as UTls can be prevented in the first place the need to prescribe antibiotics will be reduced; further recognises that, in their natural state, cranberries are low in natural sugar and high in acid and therefore need to be sweetened for palatability; is concerned that any measure to restrict the promotion of juices with added sugar could have a detrimental effect on beneficial consumption of cranberry juice; and calls on the Department of Health to exempt cranberry juice from any measures to restrict promotion on sweetened juices due to its exceptional health qualities.

Signatures by party: DUP 4, Labour 2, Social Democratic and Labour Party 2.