Concerns Over Imported Food Revealed

A new review of imported foods in the whole of Ireland has revealed concerns over imported food, especially meat.

It has been revealed that 53% of consumers in Northern Ireland are concerned about imported foods from non-European Union countries.

The review undertaken by the food safety organisation, Safefood, also revealed 41% of consumers were concerned about food imports from within the EU.

The review, the first in a new series from the organisation, also explored key issues such as food safety, nutrition, labelling and environmental issues.

The review covered all food imported onto the island of Ireland.

Martin Higgins, Chief Executive Safefood, said: "While more food is produced on the island of Ireland than imported, this review revealed greater consumer concern about imported foods.

"Of those who expressed concern, the main food safety issues for consumers in Northern Ireland were poor regulations and standards of food production in other countries (45%), the quality of imported foods (32%) and a perception that the distance food travels increases the risk of contamination (17%)," he said.

Dr. Aileen McGloin, Scientific Support Manager, Safefood added: "When looking at individual foods, 56% of consumers were concerned about the quality of imported fresh meat, 55% were concerned over the quality of frozen meat/poultry, 54% concerned about imported fresh fish and 29% concerned about imported fruit and vegetables.

"Our review also revealed that consumers found current information on the origins of food misleading and unclear and would welcome more transparent information on food sources and origins," she said.

The Safefood review also highlighted differences in consumer concerns between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland regarding imported foods.

Concerns over multiple handling of products, country of origin and mistrusting the source or country of origin listed on pack proved to be higher among consumers in the Republic of Ireland than Northern Ireland.

(BMcC/KMcA)