Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what rules or guidance his Department provides on preventing noxious substances being contained in fish food pellets where those fish may later be used for human consumption; and if he will make a statement.

Stringent rules apply to ensure food and feed safety in the United Kingdom. UK feed law implements European Union legislation to ensure feed is safe for animals, the environment and the public who consume animals and their by-products. Fish are regarded as food producing animals.

There are specific rules prohibiting certain materials from being used in animal feed and maximum levels for certain undesirable substances. Additionally, additives used in feed need to be authorised and used within maximum levels where specified. There are also rules on the hygiene, production and storage of animal feed. These are based on the best available scientific evidence and analysis.

The Government remains committed to ensuring that the high standards of food and feed safety and consumer protection we enjoy in this country are maintained.